Analyzer and method for testing a sample

ABSTRACT

An analyzer for testing a biological sample is proposed, wherein the analyzer comprises a pressurized gas supply having an intermediate gas storage that is fluidically arranged between an intermediate valve and an actuation valve. A method for testing a biological sample is proposed, wherein the power supply of an intermediate valve is cut off when the valve starts to change its position and/or wherein the pressure of an intermediate gas storage located downstream of an intermediate valve is controlled. Further, a method for inspecting an analyzer, in particular its pressurized gas supply, is proposed, wherein the pressure drop in a main gas storage is measured and compared to a reference pressure drop in order to inspect the analyzer.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an analyzer, a method for testing asample and a method for inspecting an analyzer.

Preferably, the present invention deals with analyzing and testing apreferably biological sample, in particular from a human or animal,mostly preferred for analytics and diagnostics, e.g. with regard to thepresence of diseases and/or pathogens and/or for determining bloodcounts, antibodies, hormones, steroids or the like.

Therefore, the present invention is in particular within the field ofbioanalytics. A food sample, environmental sample or another sample mayoptionally also be tested, in particular for environmental analytics orfood safety and/or for detecting other substances.

Preferably, by means of the present invention, at least one analyte(target analyte) of a sample can be determined, identified or detected.In particular, the sample can be tested for qualitatively orquantitatively determining at least one analyte, e.g. in order to detector identify a disease and/or pathogen.

Within the meaning of the present invention, analytes are in particularnucleic-acid sequences, in particular DNA sequences and/or RNAsequences, and/or proteins, in particular antigens and/or antibodies. Inparticular, by means of the present invention, nucleic-acid sequences orproteins can be determined, identified or detected as the analytes of asample. Mostly preferred, the present invention deals with systems,devices and other apparatuses for carrying out a nucleic-acid assay fordetecting or identifying a nucleic-acid sequence or a protein assay fordetecting or identifying a protein.

The present invention deals in particular with what are known aspoint-of-care systems, e.g. mobile systems/devices and other mobileapparatuses, and deals with methods for carrying out tests on a sampleat the sampling site and/or independently or away from a centrallaboratory or the like. Preferably, point-of-care systems can beoperated autonomously and/or independently of a mains network forsupplying electrical power.

Description of the Related Art

U.S. Pat. No. 5,096,669 discloses a point-of-care system for testing abiological sample, in particular a blood sample. The system comprises asingle-use cartridge and an analyzer. Once the sample has been received,the cartridge is inserted into the analyzer in order to carry out thetest. The cartridge comprises a microfluidic system and a sensorapparatus comprising electrodes, which apparatus is calibrated by meansof a calibration liquid and is then used to test the sample.

Furthermore, International Patent Application Publication WO 2006/125767A1 and corresponding U.S. Pat. No. 9,110,044 B2 disclose a point-of-caresystem for integrated and automated DNA or protein analysis, comprisinga single-use cartridge and an analyzer for fully automaticallyprocessing and evaluating molecular-diagnostic analyses using thesingle-use cartridge.

In point-of-care systems, it is important that the analyzers used areconstructed in a simple and robust manner, that the analyzers used havea low energy consumption and that the test can be conducted in a simple,reliable and fast manner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The object of the present invention is to provide an improved analyzerfor testing a sample and an improved method for testing a sample,preferably having a low energy consumption and/or wherein a simple,cost-effective and/or low maintenance construction and/or a simple,reliable and/or fast conduction of the test is possible, facilitated orachieved.

The problem is solved by an analyzer according to claim 1, a methodaccording to claim 12 or a method according to claim 19. Advantagedevelopments are subject of the dependent claims.

The proposed analyzer preferably comprises a pressurized/compressed gassupply for providing a pressurized/compressed gas, in particular air,wherein the pressurized gas supply comprises a preferably electricallydriven compressor, a main gas storage downstream of the compressor, anintermediate valve downstream of the main gas storage and at least oneactuation valve downstream of the intermediate valve.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the analyzercomprises—in particular additionally to the main gas storage—anintermediate gas storage that is fluidically arranged downstream of themain gas storage and/or between the intermediate valve and the actuationvalve.

The main gas storage and/or the intermediate gas storage are/ispreferably embodied as a tank/container/reservoir, preferably whereinthe main gas storage and the intermediate gas storage are fluidicallyconnected or connectable to one another, in particular by means of atleast one pneumatic line.

The volume of the main gas storage is preferably larger than the volumeof the intermediate gas storage, preferably by a factor of at least 2 or3, in particular by at least 5 or 10.

Due to the intermediate gas storage, it is possible to control thepressure independently from the main gas storage and/or without changingthe pressure in the main gas storage. In particular, it is possible toadapt the pressure in the intermediate gas storage according to the loadneeded, preferably independently of the main gas storage and/or withoutadapting the pressure in the main gas storage.

Thus, such a construction/arrangement allows a flexible, dynamic and/orhighly responsive supply with pressurized gas.

Preferably, the analyzer comprises a plurality of actuation valves, eachpreferably being associated/assigned to different apparatuses forcontrolling the fluid flow in the cartridge.

In particular, the pressure of the intermediate gas storage can beadapted dependent on load required, i.e. the apparatus of the pluralityof apparatuses to be activated/deactivated and/or used.

The analyzer, in particular the pressurized gas supply, preferablycomprises an intermediate pressure sensor for measuring the pressure inthe intermediate gas storage, a main pressure sensor for measuring thepressure in the main gas storage and/or a control apparatus forcontrolling/adapting the pressure in the main gas storage and/orintermediate gas storage.

The control apparatus is preferably electrically connected to theintermediate pressure sensor, the main pressure sensor, the intermediatevalve and/or the actuation valve(s), in particular in order to controlthe pressure of the intermediate gas storage.

According to the proposed method for testing an in particular biologicalsample in an analyzer by means of a cartridge, at least one apparatusfor controlling the fluid flow in the cartridge, in particular a pumpapparatus and/or a sensor apparatus of the cartridge, is pneumaticallyoperated/powered and/or supplied with pressurized gas by means of apressurized gas supply which comprises a compressor, a main gas storagedownstream of the compressor and an intermediate valve downstream of themain gas storage.

According to one aspect of the proposed method, the pressure of anintermediate gas storage located downstream of the intermediate valveand/or downstream of the main gas storage is controlled, in particularby means of a control apparatus, an intermediate pressure sensor and/orthe intermediate valve, mostly preferred in order to maintain or adaptthe pressure in the intermediate gas storage, mostly preferred dependenton the required load and/or dependent on the apparatus to beactivated/deactivated and/or independent of the pressure in the main gasstorage and/or independent of the compressor.

Due to the intermediate gas storage, it is not necessary to adapt thepressure of the (larger) main gas storage, when another load is requiredand/or another apparatus is to be activated/deactivated.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, which can berealized independently, the intermediate valve is embodied as a solenoidvalve, in particular a solenoid operated directional control valve,wherein the intermediate valve is (directly) activated/energized, i.e.powered/supplied with electrical energy and/or the power supply of theintermediate valve is turned on, or (directly)deactivated/disconnected/de-energized, i.e. the power supply is cut off,before the intermediate valve or its valve body has reached its endposition, i.e. before it has switched completely and/or before the valvebody is stopped and/or before the valve body stops to move and/or whilestill in motion, and/or when the position of the intermediate valvestarts to change, in particular when a core/plunger and/or a valve bodyof the intermediate valve starts to move.

Preferably, the movement of the core/plunger and/or valve body isdetermined/detected in order to activate or deactivate the intermediatevalve (immediately).

Thus, the intermediate valve is preferably only activated for a shorttime.

In this way, the actuation time, i.e. the time the intermediate valve isactivated/energized and/or supplied with electrical energy, and, thus,the time delay of the pressure control is reduced.

Further, the intermediate valve can be operated with a higher switchingfrequency and pressure changes/fluctuations can be reduced more easily.

Further, the power consumption is reduced and/or the energy efficiencyof the analyzer is increased.

Preferably, the electric current (consumption) of the intermediate valveis—directly or indirectly—measured, in particular by means of a controlapparatus, for the operation of the intermediate valve and/or in orderto determine when the position of the intermediate valve, in particularits valve body, starts to change and/or when its valve body starts tomove.

When the position of the intermediate valve starts to change, inparticular when its core/plunger and/or valve body starts to move,preferably a (counter) current is produced/induced and/or thepower/current consumption and/or current gradient of the intermediatevalve is reduced.

Preferably, a change in, e.g. a decrease of, the current gradient of theintermediate valve, in particular a local extremum of the current, isdetermined/detected, in particular in order to determine when toactivate or deactivate the intermediate valve and/or when the positionof the intermediate valve, in particular its valve body, starts tochange and/or when its valve body starts to move.

This allows an easy implementation of the pressure control method.

Further, a method for inspecting the analyzer is proposed, wherein thepressure drop associated with the operation, in particular theactivation, of an apparatus for controlling the fluid flow in acartridge is measured, in particular in a main gas storage and/or anintermediate gas storage, in order to inspect the analyzer, inparticular the apparatus and/or an associated actuation valve.

Preferably the measured pressure drop is compared to thenormal/reference pressure drop. In particular, the deviation between themeasured pressure drop and the normal/reference pressure drop is used asan indicator, whether the analyzer, in particular the apparatus and/orthe associated valve, works properly.

As the apparatus is pneumatically operated, its actuation is associatedwith air consumption and, thus, a pressure drop within the main gasstorage and/or the intermediate gas storage.

Preferably, an air consumption and/or pressure drop that is too high(compared to the normal/reference air consumption and/or pressure drop)is an indicator for a leakage.

Preferably, an air consumption and/or pressure drop that is too low(compared to the normal/reference air consumption and/or pressure drop)is an indicator that the apparatus and/or the associated valve do notwork/react correctly.

In this way, an easy and fast inspection of the analyzer is possible, inparticular without the need of additional equipment.

In the context of the present invention, the term “analyzer” ispreferably understood to refer to a preferably mobileinstrument/apparatus, which is designed to chemically, biologicallyand/or physically tests and/or analyze a sample or a component thereof,preferably in and/or by means of a cartridge containing the sample. Theanalyzer preferably controls the testing of the sample in and/or bymeans of the cartridge. In order to carry out the test, the cartridgecan be connected to, in particular received by, the analyzer, as alreadymentioned.

The term “cartridge” is preferably understood to refer to an inparticular disposable apparatus or unit which is designed to receive, tostore and/or to physically, chemically and/or biologically treat and/orprepare and/or to measure a sample, preferably in order to detect,identify or determine at least one analyte, in particular a proteinand/or nucleic-acid sequence, of the sample.

A cartridge within the meaning of the present invention preferablycomprises a fluid system having a plurality of channels, cavities and/orvalves for controlling the flow through the channels and/or cavities. Inparticular, a cartridge is at least substantially planar and/orcard-like. Mostly preferred, a cartridge is designed as a (micro)fluidiccard and/or as a support/container that can be closed and/or insertedand/or plugged in an analyzer when it contains a sample.

The above-mentioned aspects and features of the present invention andthe aspects and features of the present invention that will becomeapparent from the claims and the following description can, inprinciple, be implemented independently from one another, but also inany combination or order.

Further aspects, features and advantages of the present invention willbe apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments withreference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a proposed analyzer and a cartridgereceived therein;

FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective front view of the cartridge;

FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective rear view of the cartridge;

FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of the analyzer in the openstate;

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the analyzer;

FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of a clamping system of theanalyzer;

FIG. 7 is a schematic sectional view of the analyzer, showing theanalyzer in the open position;

FIG. 8 is a schematic sectional view of the analyzer according to FIG.7, showing the analyzer in a test position;

FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a connection unit of theanalyzer;

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a pressurized gas supply of theanalyzer; and

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the current as a function of time whena valve of the pressurized gas supply is activated.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the drawings, the same reference signs are used for the same orsimilar parts and components, resulting in corresponding or comparableproperties, features and advantages, even if these are not repeatedlydescribed.

FIG. 1 is a highly schematic view of a proposed analyzer 200 comprisingan apparatus or cartridge 100 for testing an in particular biologicalsample P.

FIG. 2 is a perspective front view of the cartridge 100 showing itsfront 100A and FIG. 3 is a perspective rear view thereof, showing itsback 100B.

The apparatus or cartridge 100 in particular forms a handheld unit,hereinafter referred to as cartridge 100.

The term “sample” is preferably understood to refer to a sample materialthat is to be tested and which is in particular taken from a human oranimal. Preferably, within the meaning of the present invention, asample is a fluid, such as saliva, blood, urine or another liquid,preferably from a human or animal, or a component thereof.

Within the meaning of the present invention, a sample may be pre-treatedor prepared if necessary, or may come directly from a human or animal orthe like. A food sample, environmental sample or another sample mayoptionally also be tested, in particular for environmental analytics,food safety and/or for detecting other substances, preferably naturalsubstances, but also biological or chemical warfare agents, poisons orthe like.

A sample within the meaning of the present invention preferably containsone or more analytes, it preferably being possible for the analytes tobe identified or detected, in particular qualitatively and/orquantitatively determined. Preferably, within the meaning of the presentinvention, a sample has target nucleic-acid sequences as analytes, inparticular target DNA sequences and/or target RNA sequences, and/ortarget proteins as the analytes, in particular target antigens and/ortarget antibodies. Preferably, at least one disease and/or pathogen canbe detected or identified in the sample P by qualitatively and/orquantitatively determining the analytes.

Preferably, the analyzer 200 controls the testing of the sample P, inparticular in or on the cartridge 100, and/or is used to evaluate thetesting and/or to collect, to process and/or to store measured valuesfrom the test.

By means of the analyzer 200 and/or by means of the cartridge 100 and/orby means of the method for testing the sample P, an analyte or aplurality of analytes of the sample P can preferably be determined,identified or detected, in particular not only qualitatively, but alsoquantitatively.

Therefore, the sample P can in particular be tested for qualitativelyand/or quantitatively determining at least one analyte, e.g. in order todetect or identify a disease and/or a pathogen or to determine othervalues, which are important for diagnostics, for example.

The cartridge 100 is preferably at least substantially planar, flat,plate-shaped and/or card-like.

The cartridge 100 preferably comprises an in particular at leastsubstantially planar, flat, plate-shaped and/or card-like mainbody/support 101, the main body or support 101 in particular being madeof and/or injection-moulded from plastic material, in particularpolypropylene.

The cartridge 100 preferably comprises two flat sides 100A, 100B. Inparticular, the front 100A of the cartridge 100 and the back 100B of thecartridge 100 are each a flat side of the in particular planar and/orcard-like cartridge 100.

The cartridge 100 preferably comprises at least one film/cover 102 forcovering the main body 101 and/or cavities and/or channels formedtherein, at least partially, in particular on the front 100A, and/or forforming valves or the like.

The cartridge 100 and/or its main body 101, in particular together withthe cover 102, preferably forms and/or comprises a fluidic system 103,hereinafter referred to as fluid system 103.

The cartridge 100, the main body 101 and/or the fluid system 103 are/ispreferably at least substantially vertically oriented during theoperation/test and/or in the test/operating position and/or when beinginserted in the analyzer 200, as shown schematically in FIG. 1. Inparticular, the surface extension or main plane H of the cartridge 100extends at least substantially vertically in the test/operatingposition.

The cartridge 100, in particular its fluid system 103, preferablycomprises a plurality of cavities, in particular at least one receivingcavity 104 for receiving/introducing the sample P, at least one meteringcavity 105, at least one intermediate cavity 106, at least one mixingcavity 107, at least one storage cavity 108, at least one reactioncavity 109, at least one intermediate temperature-control cavity 110and/or at least one collection cavity 111, a plurality of cavitiespreferably being fluidically interconnected in particular by a pluralityof channels.

Within the meaning of the present invention, channels are preferablyelongate forms for conducting a fluid in a main flow direction, theforms preferably being closed transversely, in particularperpendicularly, to the main flow direction and/or longitudinalextension, preferably on all sides.

In particular, the main body 101 comprises elongate notches, recesses,depressions or the like, which are closed at the side by the cover 102and form channels within the meaning of the present invention.

Within the meaning of the present invention, cavities or chambers arepreferably formed by recesses, depressions or the like in the cartridge100 or main body 101, which are closed or covered by the cover 102, inparticular at the side. The volume or space enclosed by each cavity ispreferably fluidically linked, in particular to the fluid system 103, bymeans of channels.

In particular, within the meaning of the present invention, a cavitycomprises at least two openings for the inflow and/or outflow of fluids.

Within the meaning of the present invention, cavities preferably have alarger diameter and/or flow cross section than channels, preferably byat least a factor of 2, 3 or 4. In principle, however, cavities may insome cases also be elongate, in a similar manner to channels.

The cartridge 100 and/or the fluid system 103 preferably comprises atleast one pump apparatus 112 and/or at least one sensorarrangement/apparatus 113.

In the example shown, the cartridge 100 or the fluid system 103preferably comprises a plurality of intermediate cavities 106, aplurality of storage cavities 108 and/or a plurality of reactioncavities 109, which can preferably be loaded separately from oneanother.

In the initial state of the cartridge 100 or when at the factory, thestorage cavities 108 are preferably filled at least in part, inparticular with a liquid such as a reagent, solvent or wash buffer.

The reaction cavity/cavities 109 is/are preferably designed to allow asubstance located in the reaction cavity 109 to react when an assay isbeing carried out.

The reaction cavity/cavities 109 is/are used in particular to carry outan amplification reaction, in particular PCR, or several, preferablydifferent, amplification reactions, in particular PCRs. It is preferableto carry out several, preferably different, PCRs, i.e. PCRs havingdifferent primer combinations or primer pairs, in parallel and/orindependently and/or in different reaction cavities 109.

“PCR” stands for polymerase chain reaction and is a molecular-biologicalmethod by means of which certain analytes, in particular portions of RNAor RNA sequences or DNA or DNA sequences, of a sample P are amplified,preferably in several cycles, using polymerases or enzymes, inparticular in order to subsequently test and/or detect the amplificationproducts or nucleic-acid products. If RNA is intended to be testedand/or amplified, before the PCR is carried out, a cDNA is producedstarting from the RNA, in particular using reverse transcriptase. ThecDNA is used as a template for the subsequent PCR.

The amplification products, target nucleic-acid sequences and/or otherportions of the sample P produced in one or more reaction cavities 109can be conducted or fed to the connected sensor arrangement or sensorapparatus 113, in particular by means of the pump apparatus 112.

The sensor arrangement or sensor apparatus 113 is used in particular fordetecting, particularly preferably qualitatively and/or quantitativelydetermining, the analyte or analytes of the sample P, mostly preferredthe target nucleic-acid sequences and/or target proteins as theanalytes. Alternatively or additionally, however, other values may alsobe collected and/or determined.

The sensor apparatus 113 preferably comprises a sensor array (not shown)in order to determine or detect in particular a plurality of analytes.

In particular, the sensor apparatus 113 or sensor array comprisescapture molecules (not shown) in order to bond analytes and/oramplification products and subsequently detect, identify or determinesaid analytes and/or amplification products in a detection process.

Mostly preferred, electrochemical detection is carried out.

The cartridge 100, the main body 101 and/or the fluid system 103preferably comprise a plurality of channels 114 and/or valves 115, asshown in FIG. 2.

By means of the channels 114 and/or valves 115, the cavities 104 to 111,the pump apparatus 112 and/or the sensor apparatus 113 can betemporarily and/or permanently fluidically interconnected and/orfluidically separated from one another, as required and/or optionally orselectively, in particular such that they are controlled by the analyzer200.

The cavities 104 to 111 are preferably each fluidically linked orinterconnected by a plurality of channels 114. In particular, eachcavity is linked or connected by at least two associated channels 114,such that the fluid can fill, flow through and/or drain from therespective cavities as required.

The fluid transport or the fluid system 103 is preferably not or notexclusively based on capillary forces, but is preferably essentiallybased on the effects of gravity and/or pumping forces, compressiveforces and/or suction forces that arise and/or that are generated by thepump or pump apparatus 112.

Mostly preferred, the flow or transport of fluids and the metering arecontrolled by accordingly opening and closing the valves 115 and/or byaccordingly operating the pump apparatus 112, in particular by means ofthe analyser 200, in particular its pump drive 202.

Preferably, at least one valve 115 is assigned to each cavity, the pumpapparatus 112 and/or the sensor apparatus 113 and/or is arrangedupstream of the respective inlets and/or downstream of the respectiveoutlets.

Preferably, by actuation of the assigned valves 115, the cavities 104 to111 or sequences of cavities 104 to 111, can be selectively releasedand/or fluid can selectively flow therethrough, and/or the cavities 104to 111 can be fluidically connected to the fluid system 103 and/or toother cavities.

In particular, the valves 115 are formed by the main body 101 and thefilm/cover 102 and/or are formed therewith and/or are formed in anothermanner, e.g. by additional layers, depressions or the like.

Preferably, one or more valves 115A are—preferably tightly—closedinitially and/or in the delivery state of the cartridge 100, inparticular in order to seal liquids or liquid reagents F, located in thestorage cavities 108, and/or the fluid system 103 from the openreceiving cavity 104 and/or in a storage-stable manner Hereinafter,these valves 115A are referred to as initially closed valves 115A.

Preferably, an initially closed valve 115A is arranged upstream anddownstream of each storage cavity 108. Said valves 115A are preferably(only) opened, in particular automatically and/or by means of theanalyzer 200, when the cartridge 100 is actually being used, inparticular for the first time, and/or during or after inserting thecartridge 100 into the analyzer 200 and/or for carrying out the assay.

The initially closed valves 115A assigned to the receiving cavity 104seal the fluid system 103 and/or the cartridge 100 in particularfluidically and/or in a gas-tight manner, preferably until the sample Pis introduced and/or the receiving cavity 104 is closed.

As an alternative or in addition to the initially closed valves 115A,one or more valves 115B are preferably provided which are open/notclosed initially/normally and/or in the delivery state of the cartridge100 and/or in an inoperative/initial position/state and/or when thecartridge 100 is not inserted into the analyzer 200. These valves 115Bare used in particular to control the flows of fluid during the testand/or are referred to as initially/normally open valves 115B.

Preferably, the normally open valves 115B can (only) be closed byactuation, mostly preferred by means of the analyzer 200.

The cartridge 100 is preferably designed as a microfluidic card and/orthe fluid system 103 is preferably designed as a microfluidic system.

In the present invention, the term “microfluidic” is preferablyunderstood to mean that the respective volumes of the individualcavities, some of the cavities or all of the cavities 104 to 111 and/orchannels 114 are, separately or cumulatively, less than 5 ml or 2 ml,preferably less than 1 ml or 800 μl, in particular less than 600 μl or300 μl, mostly preferred less than 200 μl or 100 μl.

Preferably, a sample P having a maximum volume of 5 ml, 2 ml or 1 ml canbe introduced into the cartridge 100 and/or the fluid system 103, inparticular the receiving cavity 104.

For example, the sample P may be introduced into the receiving cavity104 and/or cartridge 100 by means of a pipette, syringe or otherinstrument.

Preferably, (all) reagents and liquids required for the test, thedetection process and/or for other purposes are provided in thecartridge 100, i.e. introduced before the test, mostly preferred inliquid form as liquids or liquid reagents F and/or in dry form as dryreagents S, as indicated in the schematic view according to FIG. 2.

Furthermore, also (all) other liquids F required for the test, thedetection process and/or for other purposes, in particular in the formof a wash buffer, a solvent for dry reagents S and/or a substrate, e.g.in order to form detection molecules and/or a redox system, arepreferably provided in the cartridge 100, i.e. introduced before use, inparticular before delivery.

The cartridge 100 preferably contains all the reagents and liquidsrequired for pre-treating the sample P and/or for carrying out the testor assay, in particular for carrying out one or more amplificationreactions or PCRs. Therefore, it is preferably only necessary to receivethe optionally pre-treated sample P.

The cartridge 100, the fluid system 103 and/or the channels 114preferably comprise sensor portions 116 or other apparatuses fordetecting liquid fronts and/or flows of fluid.

It is noted that in FIGS. 2 and 3 various components, such as thechannels 114, the valves 115, in particular the initially closed valves115A and the normally open valves 115B, and the sensor portions 116 are,for reasons of clarity, only labelled in some cases. However, the samesymbols are used in FIGS. 2 and 3, respectively, for each of thesecomponents.

As shown in FIG. 3, the sensor apparatus 113 preferably compriseselectrical contacts 113E for electrically connecting the cartridge 100and/or sensor apparatus 113.

The contacts 113E are arranged in particular on the flat side and/orback and/or around a central region 113H.

The cartridge 100 and/or the main body 101 preferably comprises areinforced or angled edge 121 and/or a reinforcing rib 122, particularlypreferably on the back 100B, as shown schematically in FIG. 3.

The cartridge 100 or the main body 101 preferably comprises a gripportion 123 in order to optimally grip and/or hold the cartridge 100 byhand. The grip portion 123 is in particular arranged and/or formed orintegrally moulded on a longitudinal side.

The edge 121 and/or the reinforcing rib 122 are used in particular toprovide reinforcement for the cartridge 100 or the main body 101transversely to the surface extension or plate plane H or flat side orback 100B. This is particularly advantageous when mounting/clamping thecartridge 100 in the analyzer 200. The increased rigidity makes itpossible to apply high forces when mounting/clamping the cartridge 100.

The cartridge 100 and/or the main body 101 preferably has, in the regionof the reaction cavity/cavities 109, a region of reduced wall thickness,a weakened portion or a depression 101E in order to allow or ensure thatthe reaction cavity/cavities 109 and/or the fluids located thereinis/are thermally coupled to the associated reaction temperature-controlapparatus 204A in an effective or improved manner.

The cartridge 100 or the main body 101 preferably comprises at least onepositioning portion 126, in particular two positioning portions 126 inthe example shown, for mounting and/or positioning the cartridge 100 ina defined manner, in particular in the analyzer 200 while a sample P isbeing tested, as shown in FIG. 3.

The positioning portion 126 is in particular integrally moulded on orformed in one piece with the main body 101.

The positioning portion 126 preferably projects from a flat side, inthis case the back 100B, or the main plane H of the cartridge 100 ormain body 101.

The positioning portion 126 is in particular cylindrical or hollowcylindrical and/or conical, preferably on the inside and/or outside.

The outside of the positioning portion 126 preferably tapers towards thefree end or is conical. This is conducive to simple production and/orcentering of the cartridge 100 in the analyzer 200.

The inside of the positioning portion 126 is preferably conical orwidens towards the free end. This is conducive to simple productionand/or centering of the cartridge 100 in the analyzer 200.

The two positioning portions 126 are preferably arranged in a line thatis parallel to a side of the cartridge 100, in particular in a centralline that is transverse to a longitudinal side of the cartridge 100.

In particular, in the view according to FIG. 3, one positioning portion126 is arranged in the region of the lower longitudinal side of thecartridge 100. The other positioning portion 126 is arranged inparticular in the vicinity of the optional reinforcing rib 122.

The cartridge 100 or the main body 101 preferably comprises a fluidicand/or pneumatic connection 129. In the example shown, preferably aplurality of connections or two connections 129 are provided.

The connection 129 or each connection 129 is used in particular forfluidically or pneumatically supplying an associated manipulatingapparatus or for actuating said manipulating apparatus.

In the example shown, the connection 129 on the left-hand side isassigned in particular to the pump apparatus 112 and is preferably usedto pneumatically reset a peristaltic pump formed by the pump apparatus112.

In the example shown, the connection 129 on the right-hand side ispreferably assigned to the sensor apparatus 113 and is used inparticular to pneumatically actuate a sensor cover (not shown) in orderto make a sensor compartment above the sensor apparatus 113 or sensorarray smaller, in particular during detection.

Each connection 129 is preferably formed by a corresponding opening inthe main body 101, in particular its back 100B.

A card-side seal, formed in particular by a suitable layer or film orthe like, is preferably assigned to each connection 129. However, othertechnical solutions are also possible.

The receiving cavity 104 can be closed after the sample P has beenreceived. The cartridge 100 preferably comprises a closure element 130for this purpose.

In particular, the receiving cavity 104 can be closed in a liquid-tightand particularly preferably also gas-tight manner by the closure element130. In particular, a closed fluid circuit can thus be formed, with thereceiving cavity 104 being included. In particular, once the assignedvalves 115A at the inlet, outlet and/or an intermediate connection ofthe receiving cavity 104 have been opened, the receiving cavity 104 thusforms part of the fluid system 103 of the cartridge 100, wherein thefluid system is preferably closed or can be closed by the closureelement 130.

Once the sample P has been introduced into the receiving cavity 104 andsaid cavity has been closed, in particular by means of the closureelement 130, the cartridge 100 can be inserted into and/or received inthe proposed analyzer 200 in order to test the sample P, as shown inFIG. 1.

The analyzer 200 preferably comprises a preferably movable mount orreceptacle 201 for mounting and/or receiving the cartridge 100.Preferably, the receptacle 201 can be moved up and down in order toeject and receive the cartridge 100, respectively.

Preferably, the cartridge 100 and/or the fluid system 103 isfluidically, in particular hydraulically, separated or isolated from theanalyzer 200. In particular, the cartridge 100 forms a preferablyindependent and in particular closed or sealed fluidic or hydraulicsystem 103 for the sample P and the reagents and other liquids. In thisway, the analyzer 200 does not come into direct contact with the sampleP and/or other fluids and/or reagents and can in particular be reusedfor another test without being disinfected and/or cleaned first.

It is however provided that the analyzer 200 is connected or coupledmechanically, electrically, thermally and/or fluidically and/orpneumatically to the cartridge 100.

In particular, the analyzer 200 is designed to have a mechanical effect,in particular for actuating the pump apparatus 112 and/or the valves115, and/or to have a thermal effect, in particular fortemperature-controlling the reaction cavity/cavities 109 and/or theintermediate temperature-control cavity 110 and/or the sensor apparatus113.

In addition, the analyzer 200 can preferably be pneumatically connectedto the cartridge 100, in particular in order to actuate individualapparatuses, and/or can be electrically connected to the cartridge 100,in particular in order to collect and/or transmit measured values, forexample from the sensor apparatus 113 and/or sensor portions 116.

The analyzer 200 preferably comprises a pump drive 202, the pump drive202 in particular being designed for mechanically actuating the pumpapparatus 112.

The analyzer 200 preferably comprises a connection apparatus 203 for inparticular electrically and/or thermally connecting the cartridge 100and/or the sensor arrangement or sensor apparatus 113.

As shown in FIG. 1, the connection apparatus 203 preferably comprises aplurality of electrical contact elements 203A, the cartridge 100, inparticular the sensor arrangement or sensor apparatus 113, preferablybeing electrically connected or connectable to the analyzer 200 by thecontact elements 203A.

The analyzer 200 preferably comprises one or more temperature-controlapparatuses 204 for temperature-controlling the cartridge 100 and/orhaving a thermal effect on the cartridge 100, in particular for heatingand/or cooling, the temperature-control apparatus(es) 204 (each)preferably comprising or being formed by a heating resistor or a Peltierelement.

Preferably, individual temperature-control apparatuses 204, some ofthese apparatuses or all of these apparatuses can be positioned againstthe cartridge 100, the main body 101, the cover 102, the sensorapparatus 113 and/or individual cavities and/or can be thermally coupledthereto and/or can be integrated therein and/or can be operated orcontrolled in particular electrically by the analyzer 200. In theexample shown, three different temperature-control apparatuses 204A,204B and/or 204C are provided.

The analyzer 200 preferably comprises one or more actuator apparatuses205 for actuating the valves 115. Preferably, different (types or groupsof) actuator apparatuses 205A and 205B are provided which are assignedto the different (types or groups of) valves 115A and 115B for actuatingeach of said valves, respectively. Mostly preferred, the analyzer 200comprises one or more actuator apparatuses 205A for actuating theinitially closed valves 115A and one or more actuator apparatuses 205Bfor the normally open valves 115B.

The analyzer 200 preferably comprises one or more sensors 206. Inparticular, fluid sensors 206A are assigned to the sensor portions 116and/or are designed or intended to detect liquid fronts and/or flows offluid in the fluid system 103.

Mostly preferred, the fluid sensors 206A are designed to measure ordetect, in particular in a contact-free manner, for example opticallyand/or capacitively, a liquid front, flow of fluid and/or the presence,the speed, the mass flow rate/volume flow rate, the temperature and/oranother value of a fluid in a channel and/or a cavity, in particular ina respectively assigned sensor portion 116, which is in particularformed by a planar and/or widened channel portion of the fluid system103.

Alternatively or additionally, the analyzer 200 preferably comprises oneor more (other or additional) sensors 206B for detecting the ambienttemperature, internal temperature, atmospheric humidity, position and/oralignment, for example by means of a GPS sensor, and/or the orientationand/or inclination of the analyzer 200 and/or the cartridge 100.

The analyzer 200 preferably comprises a control apparatus 207, inparticular comprising an internal clock or time base for controlling thesequence of a test or assay and/or for collecting, evaluating and/oroutputting or providing measured values in particular from the sensorapparatus 113, and/or from test results and/or other data or values.

The control apparatus 207 preferably controls or feedback controls thepump drive 202, the temperature-control apparatuses 204 and/or actuatorapparatuses 205, in particular taking into account or depending on thedesired test and/or measured values from the sensor apparatus 113 and/orsensors 206.

Optionally, the analyzer 200 comprises an input apparatus 208, such as akeyboard, a touch screen or the like, and/or a display apparatus 209,such as a screen.

The analyzer 200 preferably comprises at least one interface 210, forexample for controlling, for communicating and/or for outputtingmeasured data or test results and/or for linking to other devices, suchas a printer, an external power supply or the like. The interface 210might be embodied as a wired or wireless interface 210.

The analyzer 200 preferably comprises a power supply 211 for providingelectrical power, preferably a battery or an accumulator, which is inparticular integrated and/or externally connected or connectable.

Preferably, an integrated accumulator is provided as a power supply 211and is (re)charged by an external charging device (not shown) via aconnection 211A and/or is interchangeable.

The analyzer 200 is preferably portable or mobile. Preferably, theanalyzer 200 weighs less than 25 kg or 20 kg, mostly preferred less than15 kg or 10 kg, in particular less than 9 kg or 6 kg.

The analyzer 200 preferably comprises a housing 212, preferably whereinall the components and/or some or all of the apparatuses of the analyzer200 are integrated in the housing 212 and/or arranged in the interiorspace 212A thereof.

Mostly preferred, the cartridge 100 can be inserted or slid into thehousing 212, and/or can be received by the analyzer 200, through anopening 213 which can in particular be closed, such as a slot or thelike.

As already explained, the analyzer 200 can preferably be fluidicallyand/or pneumatically linked or connected to the cartridge 100, inparticular to the sensor apparatus 113 and/or to the pump apparatus 112,preferably by means of one or more—fluidic or pneumatic—connections 129.

Mostly preferred, the analyzer 200 is designed to supply the cartridge100, in particular the sensor apparatus 113 and/or the pump apparatus112, with a working medium, preferably gas, in particular air.

Preferably, the working medium can be compressed and/or pressurized inthe analyzer 200 or by means of the analyzer 200.

The analyzer 200 preferably comprises a pressurized gas supply 214 inorder to provide a pressurized/compressed working medium, preferablygas, in particular air.

The pressurized gas supply 214 is preferably integrated in the analyzer200 or the housing 212 and/or can be controlled or feedback controlledby means of the control apparatus 207.

Preferably, the pressurized gas supply 214 is electrically operated orcan be operated by electrical power. In particular, the pressurized gassupply 214 can be supplied with electrical power by means of the powersupply 211.

The analyzer 200 and/or pressurized gas supply 214 preferably comprisesa connection element 214A, in particular in order to pneumaticallyconnect the analyzer 200 and/or pressurized gas supply 214 to thecartridge 100, in particular the sensor apparatus 113 and/or pumpapparatus 112, mostly preferred via the connection 129 or connections129.

FIG. 4 shows the analyzer 200 in the open state/position, i.e. when thereceptacle 201 is accessible and/or the opening 213 is formed. Here, thecartridge 100 has already been inserted into the analyzer 200,preferably through the opening 213 into the receptacle 201.

The analyzer 200 or housing 212 preferably comprises an accesscover/housing part 212B that can be opened. Preferably, the analyzer200, in particular its housing 212, can be opened by moving the accesscover/housing part 212B relative to the housing 212, in particular abase 212C thereof, and/or such that the opening 213 is formed and/or thereceptacle 201 is accessible, mostly preferred from the top.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the analyzer 200, showing its preferredassembly.

As already mentioned the analyzer preferably comprises a housing 212that contains/encompasses the main, in particular all, (mechanical orelectrical) parts/components of the analyzer 200.

The analyzer 200 preferably comprises a preferably mechanicalclosing/clamping system 280, pressurized gas supply 214, at least oneventilation apparatus 281, at least one electronic unit 282 and/or asupport/cushion 283.

The clamping system 280 is preferably adapted to receive, hold, mount,position/align or clamp the cartridge 100 within the analyzer 200, inparticular the housing 212, mostly preferred in order to conduct thetest with the cartridge 100 in a pre-defined position.

The ventilation apparatus 281 is preferably adapted to ventilate/coolthe analyzer 200 or a housing 212, in particular its interior 212A. Inthe embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the analyzer 200 preferably comprisesseveral, here two, ventilation apparatuses 281.

As already mentioned, the pressurized gas supply 214 is preferablyadapted to provide pressurized gas, preferably to the cartridge 100, inparticular its sensor apparatus 113 and/or pump apparatus 112. Thepressurized gas supply 214 will be described later in detail withreference to FIGS. 10 and 11.

In the present embodiment, the pressurized gas supply 214, the clampingsystem 280, the ventilation apparatus 281 and the electronic unit 282are preferably not rigidly connected to one another and, thus, do notform an assembly group/unit. However, it is also possible that some orall of these parts/components are rigidly connected to one anotherand/or form a (common) assembly group/unit. In particular, thepressurized gas supply 214, the ventilation apparatus 281 and/or theelectronic unit 282 might be integrated into the clamping system 280.

The housing 212 is preferably a multi-piece construction and/orcomprises a base 212C and a top 212D.

The support/cushion 283, herein after referred to as cushion 283, ispreferably arranged within the housing 212.

The cushion 283 is preferably adapted to hold, support, bear, alignand/or position some or all parts of the analyzer 200, in particular thepressurized gas supply 214, the clamping system 280, the ventilationapparatus 281 and/or the electronic unit 282, within the housing 212, inparticular its interior 212A, mostly preferred such that these parts areimmovable relative to one another, the cushion 283 and/or the housing212.

In particular, the cushion 283 is adapted to secure these parts againstunwanted/accidental displacement.

The cushion 283 preferably of multi-piece construction and/or comprisesa base 283A and a top 283B.

Preferably, the cushion 283 is connected to the housing 212 in aforce-fitting and/or form-fitting manner and/or by welding.

Mostly preferred, the outer shape/contour of the cushion 283 correspondsat least essentially to the inner shape/contour of the housing 212, inparticular the interior 212A, in particular such that the cushion 283sits firmly, immovably and/or in a form-fit manner within the housing212.

The cushion 283 preferably comprises or forms an interior 283D thatcorresponds to and/or matches the parts that are supported by thecushion 283, in particular the pressurized gas supply 214, the clampingsystem 280, the ventilation apparatus 281 and/or the electronic unit282.

In the following, the clamping system 280 will be described in detailwith reference to FIGS. 6 to 8.

FIG. 6 shows a schematic perspective view of the clamping system 280.

The analyzer 200, in particular the clamping system 280, is preferablydesigned to receive, position/align, hold and/or clamp the cartridge100, in particular such that the cartridge 100 is positioned/alignedand/or firmly held within the analyzer 200, in particular the clampingsystem 280, mostly preferred in a pre-defined and/or repeatable manner,and/or can be mechanically, electrically, thermally, fluidically and/orpneumatically connected, mostly preferred to the pump drive 202, theconnection apparatus 203, the temperature-control apparatus 204, thereaction temperature-control apparatus 204A, the intermediatetemperature-control apparatus 204B, the sensor temperature-controlapparatus 204C, the actuator(s) 205, the sensor(s) 206, the controlapparatus 207, the input apparatus 208, the display apparatus 209, theinterface 210, the power supply 211 and/or the pressurized gas supply214.

The analyzer 200, in particular the clamping system 280, preferablycomprises an optional receiving/intermediate unit 230, a connection unit231, a clamping/actuator unit 232, a drive apparatus 233, a guideapparatus 234, a rack/frame 237, a lifting apparatus 238 and/or anopening apparatus 239.

The clamping system 280, in particular the clamping unit 232, theintermediate unit 230, the connection unit 231 and/or the liftingapparatus 238, preferably comprise(s) or form(s) the slot/receptacle 201for mounting and/or receiving the cartridge 100.

Mostly preferred, the receptacle 201 is formed/arranged between theclamping unit 232 and/or the intermediate unit 230 on the one hand andthe connection unit 231 on the other hand.

In particular, the receptacle 201 is laterally limited by theintermediate unit 230, connection unit 231 and/or clamping unit 232and/or at the bottom by means of the lifting apparatus 238.

Preferably, the optional intermediate unit 230 and/or the liftingapparatus 238 are arranged between the clamping unit 232 and theconnection unit 231.

The intermediate unit 230, the connection unit 231, the clamping unit232 and/or the lifting apparatus 238 are preferably movable/slidablerelative to one another and/or back and forth, in particular in order tohold the cartridge 100 in a clamped manner for the test and/or in a testposition and/or to release/eject the cartridge 100 after the test hasbeen completed.

Due to the movement of the intermediate unit 230, connection unit 231and/or clamping unit 232 relative to one another, the distance betweenthe intermediate unit 230, connection unit 231 and/or clamping unit 232and, thus, the volume of the receptacle 201 can be reduced andincreased.

The intermediate unit 230, connection unit 231 or its main body 231Dand/or clamping unit 232 are preferably at least essentially flat and/orplate-like and/or constructed/assembled from a plurality of plates orplate-shaped components.

The intermediate unit 230, connection unit 231 and/or clamping unit 232and/or the respective main planes thereof are preferably arranged atleast essentially parallel to one another and/or side by side.

The drive apparatus 233 is preferably adapted to move/actuate theclamping unit 232, intermediate unit 230, connection unit 231 and/or thelifting apparatus 238.

Mostly preferred, the drive apparatus 233 is adapted to push theclamping unit 232, intermediate unit 230, connection unit 231 and/or thelifting apparatus 238 in order to clamp/position/align the cartridge100, in particular between the clamping unit 232 and the connection unit231, and/or to pull the clamping unit 232, intermediate unit 230,connection unit 231 and/or the lifting apparatus 238 in order to releasethe cartridge 100 for ejection and/or when the test has been completed.

Thus, the drive apparatus 233 preferably operates into two (opposing)directions, in particular a first actuation direction towards theconnection unit 231 and a second actuation direction away from theconnection unit 231.

The drive apparatus 233 preferably comprises an in particular electricaldrive/motor 233A, a shaft 233D and/or a preferably fork-shaped drivehead 233E.

Preferably, the drive apparatus 233, in particular its drive 233A, isembodied as a stepper motor and/or comprises a threaded spindle as shaft233D. However, other constructional solutions are possible as well.

In the present embodiment, the connection unit 231 is preferably fixed,immovable and/or stationary, in particular relative to the driveapparatus 233 and/or rack 237, and/or only the clamping unit 232, theintermediate unit 230 and/or the lifting apparatus 238 aremovable/slidable and/or driven by means of the drive apparatus 233.However, other constructional solutions are possible as well, whereinthe connection unit 231 is movable/slidable, in particular additionallyor alternatively to the intermediate unit 230, the clamping unit 232and/or the lifting apparatus 238. The connection unit 231 might bedriven by the drive apparatus 233 or an additional drive apparatus.

The following description mainly refers to the present embodiment, i.e.with regard to the movement of the clamping unit 232, the intermediateunit 230 and/or the lifting apparatus 238, but may also apply to otherembodiments correspondingly, in particular in which the connection unit231 is movable/slidable additionally or alternatively to the clampingunit 232, the intermediate unit 230 and/or the lifting apparatus 238.

The drive apparatus 233 is preferably adapted to move/actuate theclamping unit 232, the intermediate unit 230 and/or the liftingapparatus 238 back and forth and/or in the direction of and away fromthe (preferably fixed) connection unit 231.

The drive apparatus 233, in particular its shaft 233D, preferablycomprises/defines an actuation axis AA, preferably wherein the shaft233D and/or the actuation axis AA are/is arranged at least essentiallyperpendicular to the intermediate unit 230 or its main plane, theconnection unit 231 or its main plane and/or the clamping unit 232 orits main plane and/or runs at least essentially centrally through theintermediate unit 230, connection unit 231 and/or clamping unit 232and/or through the center of gravity of the analyzer 200, in particularof the clamping system 280, of the intermediate unit 230, of theconnection unit 231 and/or of the clamping unit 232.

The drive apparatus 233, in particular its drive head 233E, ispreferably attached to (the center of) the clamping unit 232 and/or (thecenter of) the intermediate unit 230.

Preferably, the clamping unit 232 and/or the intermediate unit 230are/is arranged between the connection unit 231 and the drive apparatus233, in particular its drive head 233E. Mostly preferred, theintermediate unit 230 is arranged between the connection unit 231 andclamping unit 232.

As already mentioned, the analyzer 200, in particular the clampingsystem 280, preferably comprises a mounting frame/rack 237, hereinafterreferred to as rack 237, preferably wherein some or all parts of theclamping system 280, in particular the intermediate unit 230, theconnection unit 231, the clamping unit 232, the drive apparatus 233, theguide apparatus 234, the lifting apparatus 238 and/or the openingapparatus 239 are (directly) mounted on and/or (rigidly/immovably)attached to the rack 237.

In the present embodiment, the connection unit 231, the drive apparatus233, the guide apparatus 234, the lifting apparatus 238 and the openingapparatus 239 are directly mounted on and/or rigidly/immovably attachedto the rack 237, whereas the clamping unit 232 and the intermediate unit230 are movably attached to the rack 237, in particular via the guideapparatus 234.

The rack 237 preferably comprises at least one mounting surface 237A formounting some or all parts of the clamping system 280, in particular theconnection unit 231, the drive apparatus 233 and/or the guide apparatus234. Mostly preferred, the rack 237 comprises at least one mountingsurface 237A for the connection unit 231, at least one mounting surface237A for the drive apparatus 233 and/or at least one mounting surface237A for the guide apparatus 234.

Preferably, the connection unit 231, the guide apparatus 234, thelifting apparatus 238 and the opening apparatus 239 are connected to therack 237, in particular its mounting surfaces 237A, in a force-fittingmanner and/or by screwing.

The rack 237 preferably mechanically connects and/or holds/supports someor all parts of the clamping system 280, in particular the intermediateunit 230, the connection unit 231, the clamping unit 232, the driveapparatus 233, the guide apparatus 234, the lifting apparatus 238 and/orthe opening apparatus 239.

Mostly preferred, the rack 237 is at least essentially flat and/orplate-like and/or comprises or defines a main extension plane.

The rack 237 preferably extends around and/or encompasses some or allparts of the clamping system 280, in particular the intermediate unit230, connection unit 231, the clamping system 232, the drive apparatus233, the guide apparatus 234, the lifting apparatus 238 and/or theopening apparatus 239.

The rack 237 is preferably rigid and/or made of metal, mostly preferredof aluminum.

Preferably, the rack 237 is harder/stiffer than the cushion 283.

As already mentioned, the analyzer 200, in particular the clampingsystem 280, preferably comprises a guide apparatus 234 for(movably/slidably) guiding/bearing the intermediate unit 230, connectionunit 231 and/or clamping unit 232.

In the present embodiment, both, the clamping unit 232 and the optionalintermediate unit 230, are driven/moved by means of the drive apparatus233 and guided by means of the guide apparatus 234. However, it is alsopossible that only one of the units 230, 232, in particular the clampingunit 232, is driven/moved by means of the drive apparatus 233 and guidedby means of the guide apparatus 234.

The connection unit 230 might additionally or alternatively be guided bymeans of the guide apparatus 234.

In the following, the movement/guidance primarily of the clamping unit232 will be described. However, the intermediate unit 230and—additionally or alternatively—the connection unit 231 can bedriven/moved/guided in the same or a similar manner.

The guide apparatus 234 preferably holds/bears/guides the clamping unit232, in particular in a movable/slidable manner and/or such that it canmove/slide towards and away from the connection unit 231, mostlypreferred within the rack 237.

The guide apparatus 234 preferably comprises/forms a (linear) guidetrack, on which the clamping unit 232 and/or the intermediate unit 230are/is guided.

The guide apparatus 234 is preferably embodied as a linear-motionbearing and/or allows a linear movement of the intermediate unit 230and/or the clamping unit 232 on a predefined track.

The intermediate unit 230 and/or the clamping unit 232 are/is preferablyheld/guided/beared on both/opposing sides and/or at the edges by meansof the guide apparatus 234.

The guide apparatus 234 preferably comprises a plurality of guides, heretwo guides 234A, 234B, for movably/slidably guiding the intermediateunit 230 and/or clamping unit 232.

Preferably, the guide apparatus 234 comprises a first/main guide 234A,hereinafter referred to as first guide 234A, and a second/compensationguide 234B, hereinafter referred to as second guide 234B.

The guide apparatus 234 preferably comprises a plurality of rails/rods234C, 234D and/or a plurality of bushes/slides/bearings 234E. The guideapparatus 234 preferably comprises and/or is formed by a first/main rail234C, a second/compensation rail 234D, a first/main bush 234E and asecond/compensation bush (not shown).

Mostly preferred, the first guide 234A comprises and/or is formed by thefirst rail 234C and the main bush 234E and/or the second guide 234Bcomprises and/or is formed by the second rails 234D and/or thecompensation bush.

Preferably, the bushes 234E are movably/slidably attached to thecorresponding rails 234C, 234D. In particular, the main bush 234E ismovably/slidably attached to the first rail 234C and the compensationbush is movably/slidably attached to the second rail 234D.

The guide apparatus 234 might be equipped with further bushes that mightalso be embodied as main bushes 234E and/or compensation bushes.

The guides 234A, 234B, in particular the rails 234C, 234D, arepreferably elongated and/or at least partially extend over the length ofthe analyzer 200, in particular its clamping system 280.

Preferably, the guides 234A, 234B, in particular the rails 234C, 234D,are bar/rod-shaped, have a round/circular section and/or arecylindrical. However, it is also possible that the rails 234C, 234D areembodied as profiled rails having a non-circular profile.

The guides 234A, 234B, in particular the rails 234C, 234D, arepreferably arranged and/or integrated in the longitudinal sides of therack 237. According to another preferred embodiment (not shown), theguides 234A, 234B, in particular the rails 234C, 234D, preferably formthe longitudinal sides of the rack 237.

Preferably, the guides 234A, 234B, in particular the rails 234C, 234D,are arranged at least essentially parallel to one another, parallel tothe longitudinal sides of the clamping system 280, in particular therack 237, parallel to the shaft 233D of the drive apparatus 233 and/oron opposing sides of the rack 237.

The first guide 234A and/or first rail 234C preferably comprises/definesa first guide axis AG1, and/or the second guide 234B and/or the secondrail 234D preferably comprises/forms a second guide axis AG2.

Preferably, the guide apparatus 234, in particular the guides 234A,234B, rails 234C, 234D and/or the guide axes AG1, AG2, is/are arrangedparallel to the main plane of the rack 237 and/or actuation axis AA ofthe drive apparatus 233 and/or at least essentially perpendicular to themain plane of the intermediate unit 230, the main plane of theconnection unit 231, the main plane of the clamping unit 232 and/or themain plane H of the inserted cartridge 100.

The guide apparatus 234, in particular the guides 234A, 234B and/orrails 234C, 234D, is/are preferably mounted on and/or attached to therack 237, in particular its mounting surface(s) 237A, and/or theconnection unit 231.

The guides 234A, 234B, in particular the rails 234C, 234D, arepreferably attached/mounted at one end on/to the rack 237, in particularits mounting surface(s) 237A, and/or attached/mounted at the other endon/to the connection unit 231.

In the following the closing and opening mechanism/method of theanalyzer 200 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8.

The closing and opening mechanism/method of the analyzer 200 ispreferably conducted by means of the clamping system 280 and/orpreferably comprises the steps of opening the analyzer 200 and/or thehousing 212, receiving the cartridge 100, positioning/aligning thecartridge 100, clamping the cartridge 100, releasing the cartridge 100and ejecting the cartridge 100.

The cartridge 100 and/or the clamping system 280, in particular theclamping unit 232, the intermediate unit 230 and/or the liftingapparatus 238, preferably change(s) its/their position/state during theclosing and/or opening mechanism/method, preferably by means of the(common) drive apparatus 233.

In order to insert the cartridge 100 into the analyzer 200, the analyzer200, in particular its housing 212, is preferably to be opened, inparticular by means of the opening apparatus 239, as already mentioned.

The opening apparatus 239 is preferably adapted to open and/or close theanalyzer 200, in particular the housing 212, mostly preferred by movingthe access cover/housing part 212B.

The opening apparatus 239 preferably comprises an opening drive 239A, ashaft 239D and/or a preferably frame-like support 239C, which is alsoshown in FIG. 5.

The opening apparatus 239 is preferably embodied as a stepper-motorand/or comprises a preferably threaded spindle as shaft 239D.

The opening apparatus 239, in particular its shaft 239D, is preferablymechanically connected to the access cover/housing part 212B, inparticular via the support 239C. Mostly preferred, the housing part 212Bis mounted on the opening apparatus 239, in particular the support 239C,preferably in a form-fitting and/or force-fitting manner and/or byscrewing.

The opening apparatus 239, in particular its drive 239A, is preferably(rigidly) attached to the clamping system 280 and/or rack 237.

By means of the opening apparatus 239, the access cover/housing part212B can be moved preferably linearly and/or back and forth, inparticular in order to open and close the analyzer 200, as indicated byarrows FIGS. 7 and 8.

The optional intermediate unit 230 is preferably adapted to receive,position, orientate and/or hold the cartridge 100, in particular betweenthe clamping unit 232 and the connection unit 231, at least when beingin the initial position.

Preferably, the intermediate unit 230 comprises the lifting apparatus238. Mostly preferred, the lifting apparatus 238 is integrated into theintermediate unit 230 and/or moved together with the intermediate unit230.

The lifting apparatus 238 is preferably adapted to receive the cartridge100 and/or to move the cartridge 100 into and/or out of the analyzer200, in particular the clamping system 280 and/or the intermediate unit230 and/or the clamping unit 232.

The receiving direction of the cartridge 100 and/or the lifting movementof the lifting apparatus 238 preferably extend(s) transversally, inparticular perpendicularly, to the direction of theactuation/closing/opening movement of the clamping system 280, inparticular the clamping unit 232 and/or the intermediate unit 230,and/or to the actuation axis AA.

The intermediate unit 230 is preferably adapted to (directly) press thecartridge 100 against the connection unit 231, which is used inparticular to mechanically, electrically, thermally and/or fluidicallyconnect the cartridge 100 to the analyzer 200.

The clamping unit 232 is preferably adapted to position/align, orientateand/or hold the intermediate unit 230. Mostly preferred, the clampingunit 232 is adapted to position/align, orientate and/or hold thecartridge 100 by means of the intermediate unit 230 that is arrangedbetween the clamping unit 232 and the cartridge 100.

Thus, the clamping unit 232 preferably (primarily) acts on the cartridge100 in an indirect manner and/or by means of the intermediate unit 230.

Additionally and/or alternatively, the clamping unit 232 acts on thecartridge 100 in a direct manner. Mostly preferred, the clamping unit232 is adapted to (directly) actuate, in particular open, one or morevalves 115A of the cartridge 100.

In particular, the clamping unit 232 comprises or forms the actuator(s)205A for actuating, in particular opening, one or more valves 115A ofthe cartridge 100, as will be described later.

In the present embodiment, the clamping unit 232 acts both directly andindirectly, i.e. via the intermediate unit 230, on the cartridge 100.However, it is also possible that either the clamping unit 232 or theintermediate unit 230 solely acts on the cartridge 100 in a directmanner.

FIG. 7 shows analyzer 200, i.e. its housing 212, in the openstate/position, the clamping system 280, in particular the clamping unit232 and/or the intermediate unit 230, in the initial position and thelifting apparatus 238 in the transfer position.

The open state/position of the analyzer 200 is preferably the position,in which the opening 213 is formed and/or the receptacle 201 isaccessible and/or in which the lifting apparatus 238 is in the transferposition and/or in which the cartridge 100 can be inserted into and/orremoved from the analyzer 200, in particular the clamping system 280,the intermediate unit 230, the lifting apparatus 238 and/or thereceptacle 201.

The transfer position of the lifting apparatus 238 is preferably theposition in which the lifting apparatus 238 is ready to receive a (new)cartridge 100 and/or to move a (new) cartridge 100 into the analyzer 200and/or in which a (used) cartridge 100 is ejected or can be removed fromthe analyzer 200. Preferably, a retaining element 238B of the liftingapparatus 238 has been completely moved upwards in the transfer positionof the lifting apparatus 238, in particular such that the cartridge 100projects out of the analyzer 200 or its housing 212 or opening 213and/or can be grabbed, as shown in FIG. 7.

The initial/receiving position of the clamping system 280, in particularthe clamping unit 232 and/or the intermediate unit 230, is preferablythe position, in which the lifting apparatus 238 can be used and/or inwhich the cartridge 100 can be inserted into and/or received by and/orejected/removed from the clamping system 280, in particular the clampingunit 232 and/or the intermediate unit 230, mostly preferred by means ofthe lifting apparatus 238.

Preferably, the distance between the clamping unit 232 and/or theintermediate unit 230 on the one hand and the connection unit 231 on theother hand is maximized and/or the clamping unit 232 and/or theintermediate unit 230 are/is moved away from the connection unit 231 inthe initial/receiving position.

FIG. 8 corresponds to FIG. 7, but shows the lifting apparatus 238 in theend position. The housing 212 of the analyzer 200 is (already) closed.The clamping unit 232 and the intermediate unit 230 are in the testposition.

The end position of the lifting apparatus 238 is preferably the positionin which the lifting apparatus 238 has received/lowered the cartridge100 completely. Preferably, the retaining element 238B of the liftingapparatus 238 has been completely moved downwards into the end positionof the lifting apparatus 238, in particular such that the cartridge 100does not project out of the analyzer 200 or its housing 212 or opening213 and/or that the analyzer 200, in particular its housing 212, can beclosed without interfering with the cartridge 100.

Preferably, the test position is the position in which the clamping unit232, the intermediate unit 232 and the cartridge 100 have been movedtogether towards the connection unit 232. In particular, the clampingunit 232 and the intermediate unit 230 have been moved out of theinitial position towards the connection unit 231 until the cartridge 100is clamped between the clamping unit 232 and/or the intermediate unit230 on the one hand and the connection unit 231 on the other hand.

The test position of the clamping system 280, in particular the clampingunit 232 and/or the intermediate unit 230, is preferably the position,in which the intermediate unit 232 abuts and/or is completely movedtowards and/or pressed against the cartridge 100 and/or in which thecartridge 100 abuts and/or is completely moved towards and/orpositioned/pressed against the connection unit 231.

Preferably, the cartridge 100 is immovably held between the clampingunit 232 and/or the intermediate unit 230 on the one hand and theconnection unit 231 on the other hand in the test position. Mostlypreferred, the distance between the intermediate unit 230 and theconnection unit 231 is minimized in the test position.

Mostly preferred, a plurality or all of the (initially closed) valves115A of the cartridge 100 are actuated, in particular forced open,preferably by means of the clamping unit 232 and/or one or more actuatorapparatuses 205A in the test position and/or when the test position isreached.

Preferably, the clamping unit 232 and the intermediate unit 230 can bemoved together in the first period of movement or first step and can bemoved relative to one another in the movement direction in the secondperiod of movement or second step, in particular in order to move thecartridge 100 towards the connection unit 231 and in particular also inorder to open one or more valves 115A.

The test position of the clamping system 280, in particular the clampingunit 232 and/or the intermediate unit 230, is preferably the finalposition and/or the position, in which the distance between the drivehead 233E of the drive apparatus 233 and the clamping unit 232 isminimized and/or in which the drive head 233E is completely movedtowards and/or abuts the clamping unit 232 and/or in which the forceexerted on the cartridge 100 is maximized.

Preferably, the test can (only) be conducted, when the test position isreached.

The intermediate unit 230 and/or the clamping unit 232 can preferably bemoved out of the initial position into the test position or vice versaby means of the drive apparatus 233.

Once the cartridge 100 has been received and/or the lifting apparatus238 is in the end position, the cartridge 100, the clamping unit 232and/or the intermediate unit 230 containing the cartridge 100 are/ismoved, in particular pushed, in a first step/period of movement,preferably towards the connection unit 231, in particular until thecartridge 100 abuts the connection unit 231 and/or is positioned on oragainst the connection unit 231 in the desired manner and/or until thecartridge 100 is clamped between the connection unit 231 and theintermediate unit 230 in the desired manner and/or until the testposition has been reached.

The analyzer 200, in particular the clamping system 280, preferablycomprises a first coupling/connection 284 for mechanically connectingthe clamping unit 232 and the intermediate unit 230 to one another andan optional second coupling/connection 285 for mechanically connectingthe intermediate unit 230 and the drive head 233E to one another.

The first coupling 284 is preferably arranged between the clamping unit232 and the intermediate unit 230.

The second coupling 285 is preferably arranged or acts between the drivehead 233E and the clamping unit 232.

Thus, the couplings 284, 285 are preferably arranged in series.

Preferably, the couplings 284 are flexible/yieldable/compressible, inparticular in the direction of actuation.

The analyzer 200, in particular the clamping system 280, preferablycomprises a detection apparatus 286, preferably wherein the detectionapparatus 286 is adapted to detect the movement and/or position of theintermediate unit 230, the connection unit 231, the clamping unit 232and/or the drive head 233E, in particular relative to one another,and/or if the test position has been reached.

Mostly preferred, the detection apparatus 286 is adapted to (directly)detect the compression of the second coupling 285, in particular itscoupling spring, and/or if a predefined spring deflection has beenreached.

Preferably, the drive apparatus 233 is stopped by means of the detectionapparatus 286 and/or if the detection apparatus 286 detects the endposition.

The detection apparatus 286 is preferably embodied as a photoelectricsensor and/or comprises a transmitter, a receiver and an optionalreflector.

The detection apparatus 286 is preferably rigidly/immovably attached tothe clamping unit 232, in particular the top thereof, in particular todirectly detect the (predefined) spring deflection. However, it is alsopossible that the detection apparatus 286 is attached to other parts ofthe analyzer 200, in particular the drive head 233E, the connection unit231, the intermediate unit 230 and/or the rack 237.

FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of the connection unit 231.

The connection unit 231 preferably forms an abutment or a contactsurface for the cartridge, in particular its back 100B.

Preferably, the connection unit 231 comprises/forms a correspondingcontact surface or support region 231B that supports the cartridge 100in a clamped position and/or the test position.

The cartridge 100 is preferably positioned/orientated in a definedmanner in the test position. This can be achieved in particular by meansof corresponding engagement with the intermediate unit 230 and/or theconnection unit 231.

In the example shown, the connection unit 231 preferably comprises atleast one engagement portion 231C, which is designed in particular as arecess or depression, in order to receive an associated positioningportion 126 of the cartridge 100 in the test position and to therebyposition the cartridge 100 in its main plane H.

Particularly preferably, two engagement portions 231C are formed on theconnection unit 231 that interact with the two positioning portions 126of the cartridge 100 and/or engage in or with the two positioningportions 126 in the test position.

Particularly preferably, one engagement portion 231C, in this case thelower engagement portion 231C, is in the form of a slot or an oblonghole, whereas the other, in this case the upper, engagement portion231C, is in the form of a circular hole. This provides for optimumpositioning, reducing the risk of canting/jamming.

The connection unit 231 preferably comprises lateral bearing portions231A for the guide apparatus 234, in particular for receiving or bearingthe guide apparatus 234, in particular the first rail 234C and thesecond rail 234D.

The connection unit 231 holds or comprises preferably one or moretemperature-control apparatuses 204, in this case in particular a(further) reaction temperature-control apparatus 204A and/or the sensortemperature-control apparatus 204C.

The reaction temperature-control apparatus 204A of the connection unit231 is preferably opposite the reaction temperature-control apparatus204A of the intermediate unit 230.

Thus, the cartridge 100 and/or one or more reaction cavities 109 thereofare preferably received, arranged and/or clamped between said twotemperature-control apparatuses 204A, in particular such that thetemperature-control apparatuses 204A are positioned against or about thecartridge 100 from opposing sides in the region of the reactioncavity/cavities 109.

This allows the reaction cavity/cavities 109 to betemperature-controlled in an optimal manner.

However, also other solutions are possible here, in which only onereaction temperature-control apparatus 204A is provided either on theintermediate unit 230 or the connection unit 231.

One of the two temperature-control apparatuses 204A is preferablyfloatingly mounted and/or resiliently preloaded such that it is ensuredthat the temperature-control apparatuses 204A are positioned against thecartridge 100 in an effective and/or reliable manner and/or over theentire surface thereof and, thus, good thermal coupling is also ensured.

In particular, the temperature-control apparatus 204A of the connectionunit 231 protrudes towards the cartridge 100 such that thetemperature-control apparatus 204A engages in the recess, depression orregion 101E of reduced wall thickness of the cartridge 100. Thereduction in wall thickness of the main body 101 in the region of thereaction cavity/cavities 109 is advantageous in that it allows improvedthermal coupling and/or reduces the thermal resistance between thetemperature-control apparatus 204A and a fluid in the reaction cavity109.

The reaction cavities 109 also preferably have a very small crosssection perpendicularly to the main plane H, i.e. the cross section ofsaid cavities is very flat and said cavities have a surface extensionthat is at least substantially parallel to the main plane H, andtherefore the height of said cavities 109 is low perpendicularly to themain plane H. This allows good thermal coupling between the fluid in thereaction cavities 109 and the temperature-control apparatuses 204A.

The sensor temperature-control apparatus 204C shown in FIG. 9 ispreferably arranged and/or preferably projects such that, in the testposition, the sensor apparatus 113 and/or a central region 113H betweenthe contacts 113E is positioned against or abuts the sensortemperature-control apparatus 204C. This produces a thermal coupling inorder to temperature-control, in the desired manner, a sensorcompartment and fluids located therein and reactions, in particular suchthat heat is transferred from the sensor temperature control apparatus204C through the sensor apparatus 113 to a sensor compartment and fluidslocated therein, or vice versa.

The connection apparatuses 203 or the contact elements 203A thereof arearranged in particular around the temperature-control apparatus 204C inorder to electrically connect or contact the sensor apparatus 113 or thecontacts 113E thereof.

The connection unit 231 preferably supports one, a plurality or all ofthe actuator apparatuses 205B for actuating the assigned (normally open)valves 115B of the cartridge 100. It can be seen from FIG. 9 that aplurality of actuator apparatuses 205B are provided that can act on thecartridge 100 as required.

The actuator apparatuses 205B are integrated in particular in a mainbody 231D of the connection unit 231. In the example shown, the mainbody 231D is preferably constructed or assembled from a plurality ofplates or plate-shaped components.

The connection unit 231 preferably supports or holds the pump drive 202.In particular, the pump drive 202 is also integrated in the main body231D, as shown in FIGS. 7 to 9.

In particular, a motor 202A of the pump drive 202 drives a pump head202B of the pump drive 202.

The pump drive 202 and/or pump head 202B points towards the cartridge100 and/or towards the intermediate unit 230, and therefore the pumphead 202B can act on the pump apparatus 112 of the cartridge 100 in thedesired manner in the test position. In particular, a fluid (gas orliquid) can be conveyed in the pump apparatus 112 and, thus, in thecartridge 100 by rotating the pump head 202B. The pumping is thuscontrolled by operating the pump drive 202 and/or pump motor 202Aaccordingly.

The pump drive 202 or the pump motor 202A thereof and thetemperature-control apparatuses 204 are preferably operated electricallyand in particular supplied with electrical power by the power supply 211and/or controlled by the control apparatus 207.

Preferably, a plurality of apparatuses of the analyzer 200, such as theactuator apparatuses 205B, and/or a plurality of apparatuses of thecartridge 100, such as the pump apparatus 112 and the sensor apparatus113, are supplied by the pressurized gas supply 214 and/or controlledand/or operated by the control apparatus 207 and/or by activatingcorresponding valves and correspondingly supplying pressurized gas, inparticular air, from the pressurized gas supply 214.

The pressurized gas supply 214 will be described in the following withreference to FIG. 10, which shows a schematic diagram of the pressurizedgas supply 214.

The analyzer 200, in particular the pressurized gas supply 214,preferably comprises at least one inlet 214D, at least one filter 214E,an inlet silencer 214F, an inlet gas storage 214G, a compressor 214B, amain gas storage 214C, a main pressure sensor 214H, an intermediate gasstorage 214I, an intermediate pressure sensor 214J, at least one outletsilencer 214K, a first connection element 214A, a second connectionelement 214L, at least one actuator apparatus 205B, a plurality ofpneumatic lines 214M, a discharge valve 288, a main valve 289, anintermediate valve 290, a throttle or throttle valve 291 and/or at leastone, preferably a plurality of actuation valves 292-294, in particular afirst actuation valve 292, a second actuation valve 293 and one or morethird actuation valve(s) 294.

The filter 214E, the inlet silencer 214F, the inlet gas storage 214G,the compressor 214B, the main gas storage 214C, the main pressure sensor214H, the intermediate gas storage 214I, the intermediate pressuresensor 214J, the outlet silencer(s) 214K, the connection elements 214Aand 214L, the actuator apparatus(es) 205B, the discharge valve 288, themain valve 289, the intermediate valve 290, the throttle valve 291and/or the actuation valve(s) 292-294 are preferably connected orconnectable to one another fluidically, in particular pneumatically,and/or by means of the pneumatic lines 214M.

The pneumatic lines 214M are preferably embodied as (flexible) tubesand/or made out of plastic.

Preferably, the pneumatic lines 214M comprise a cross section that issmaller than the cross section of the main gas storage 214C and/or theintermediate gas storage 214I.

The compressor 214B, the main pressure sensor 214H, the intermediatepressure sensor 214J, the discharge valve 288, the main valve 289, theintermediate valve 290, the throttle valve 291 and/or the actuationvalve(s) 292-294 are preferably electrically connected to and/orcontrolled/operated by the (common) control apparatus 207, as indicatedby dashed lines in FIG. 10.

The pressurized gas supply 214 is preferably adapted to provide apressurized working medium, preferably gas, in particular air.

Preferably, at least one apparatus 112, 113, 205B of the analyzer 200and/or the cartridge 100 is operated/powered pneumatically and/orwith/by compressed/pressurized air and/or by means of the pressurizedgas supply 214.

Mostly preferred, the pump apparatus 112, the sensor apparatus 113, theactuator apparatus(es) 205B for the (normally open) valves 115B, thedrive apparatus 233, the lifting apparatus 238 and/or the openingapparatus 239 are/is powered/operated pneumatically and/or with/bycompressed air and/or by means of the pressurized gas supply 214.

The pressurized gas supply 214 is preferably adapted to supplypressurized/compressed air to the cartridge 100, in particular the pumpapparatus 112 and/or the sensor apparatus 113, and/or to the clampingsystem 280, in particular the connection unit 231 and/or the actuatorapparatus(es) 205B.

The pressurized gas supply 214 is preferably integrated in the analyzer200 or its housing 212.

The pressurized gas supply 214, in particular its compressor 214B, ispreferably operated electrically and/or by means of electrical power. Inparticular, the pressurized gas supply 214, preferably the compressor214B, can be supplied with electrical power by means of the electricalpower supply 211 (not shown in FIG. 10).

The analyzer 200, in particular its pressurized gas supply 214, ispreferably embodied as an open circuit. Mostly preferred, thepressurized gas supply 214 is integrated in an open circuit for theworking medium. However, other solutions are possible as well, inparticular wherein the analyzer 200, mostly preferred its pressurizedgas supply 214, comprises or forms and/or is integrated in a closedcircuit.

The analyzer 200, in particular its pressurized gas supply 214, ispreferably adapted to take in air from its surroundings and/or to useits surroundings as a reservoir for the working medium. However, it isalso possible, that the analyzer 200, in particular the pressurized gassupply 214, comprises a preferably closed reservoir, such as a tank orcontainer, for the working medium and/or is connected or connectablethereto.

Preferably, air can be drawn in through the inlet 214D and/or the filter214E into the analyzer 200, in particular the pressurized gas supply214.

The (air) inlet 214D of the analyzer 200, in particular the pressurizedgas supply 214, is preferably embodied as an opening in the housing 212.

The filter 214E is preferably arranged within the inlet 214D and/or thehousing 212.

The filter 214E is preferably embodied as a micro filter or a fineparticulate filter, preferably wherein particles having a particlediameter of more than 10 micrometer or 5 micrometers can be separated bymeans of the filter 214E, preferably wherein the particle diameter isthe maximum or average diameter of the respective particles.

The inlet silencer 214F and/or the inlet gas storage 214G are/ispreferably adapted to reduce the noise of the analyzer 200, inparticular the pressurized gas supply 214, preferably in or downstreamof the inlet 214D and/or filter 214E.

The inlet silencer 214F is preferably fluidically arranged (directly)downstream of the inlet 214D and/or filter 214E and/or upstream of thecompressor 214B and/or inlet gas storage 214G.

The optional inlet gas storage 214G preferably serves as a bufferbetween the compressor 214B on the one hand and the inlet 214D, filter214E and/or inlet silencer 214F on the other hand.

The inlet gas storage 214G preferably comprises a volume of more than 5ml or 10 ml, in particular of more than 15 ml, and/or less than 50 ml or30 ml, in particular less than 25 ml.

The compressor 214B is preferably fluidically arranged between the maingas storage 214C on the one hand and the inlet 214D, filter 214E, inletsilencer 214F and/or inlet gas storage 214G on the other hand. Mostlypreferred, the compressor 214B is located (directly) upstream of themain gas storage 214C.

The analyzer 200, preferably the pressurized gas supply 214, inparticular the compressor 214B, is preferably adapted to compress air toa pressure of more than 100 kPa, in particular more than 150 kPa or 200kPa, and/or less than 1 MPa or 500 kPa, in particular less than 400 kPaor 300 kPa, and/or to feed air to the main gas storage 214C at saidpressure.

Thus, the pressure within the main gas storage 214C is preferably ofmore than 100 kPa, in particular more than 150 kPa or 200 kPa, and/orless than 1 MPa or 500 kPa, in particular less than 400 kPa or 300 kPa.Mostly preferred, the pressure within the main gas storage 214C is of atleast essentially 200 kPa.

In particular, the main gas storage 214C is adapted to store compressedgas, in particular air, mostly preferred at said pressure.

The pressure and/or pressure values used within the context of thepresent invention preferably refer(s) to the absolute pressure and/orabsolute pressure values, i.e. the pressure compared to (perfect) vacuum(0 kPa).

In contrast to the absolute pressure, the relative pressure ispreferably the pressure compared to the ambient/atmospheric pressure,which is approximately 100 kPa at sea level.

Thus, an absolute pressure of 200 kPa preferably corresponds to arelative pressure of 100 kPa.

The main pressure sensor 214H is preferably adapted to measure thepressure in the main gas storage 214C and/or in the pneumatic line 214Mbetween the main gas storage 214C and the main valve 289.

Preferably, the pressurized gas supply 214, in particular the compressor214B, and/or the control apparatus 207, maintain(s) the pressure in themain gas storage 214C, in particular independently of the required loadand/or the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I.

Mostly preferred, (only) the pressure in the intermediate gas storage214I is controlled/adapted, preferably by means of the control apparatus207, the intermediate valve 290, the throttle valve 291 and/or theactuation valve(s) 292-294 and/or according to the required load and/orthe apparatus 112, 113 and/or 205B to be activated/deactivated and/orused.

The main gas storage 214C is preferably fluidically arranged downstreamof the compressor 214B and/or upstream of the main valve 289, theintermediate valve 290, the intermediate gas storage 214I and/or theactuation valve(s) 292-294.

The main gas storage 214C is preferably larger than the inlet gasstorage 214G and/or the intermediate gas storage 214I and/or comprises avolume or filling capacity of more than 20 ml or 30 ml, in particular ofmore than 50 ml or 80 ml, and/or less than 500 ml or 300 ml, inparticular less than 200 ml or 150 ml.

Mostly preferred, the main gas storage 214C comprises a volume orfilling capacity of 100 ml.

The discharge valve 288 is preferably arranged directly downstream ofthe main gas storage 214C.

The discharge valve 288 is preferably adapted to decrease the pressurein the main gas storage 214C, in particular to atmosphere pressure,mostly preferred when being opened.

The discharge valve 288 is preferably adapted to fluidicallyconnect/disconnect the assigned/associated outlet silencer 214K to/fromthe main gas storage 214C, in particular in order to reduce the pressurein the main gas storage 214C.

The main valve 289 is preferably fluidically arranged between the maingas storage 214C on the one hand and the intermediate valve 290 and/orthe third actuation valve(s) 294 on the other hand.

The intermediate valve 290 is preferably adapted to fluidicallyconnect/disconnect the main gas storage 214C to/from the intermediatevalve 290, the throttle valve 291, the intermediate gas storage 214I,the first actuation valve 292, the second actuation valve 293 and/or thethird actuation valve(s) 294.

The intermediate gas storage 214I is preferably arranged downstream ofthe main gas storage 214C, the compressor 214B, the inlet gas storage214G, the inlet silencer 214F, the filter 214E and/or the inlet 214D.

The intermediate gas storage 214I is preferably smaller than the maingas storage 214C and/or the inlet gas storage 214G.

Preferably, the intermediate gas storage 214I comprises a volume orfilling capacity of more than 1 ml or 2 ml, in particular more than 3 mlor 4 ml and/or less than 20 ml or 15 ml, in particular less than 10 mlor 8 ml.

Mostly preferred, the intermediate gas storage 214I comprises a volumeor filling capacity of 5 ml.

The intermediate pressure sensor 214J is preferably adapted to measurethe pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I and/or in thepneumatic line 214M between the intermediate gas storage 214I and theactuation valve(s) 292-294.

The pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I is preferably lowerthan the pressure in the main gas storage 214C.

Preferably, the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I is of morethan 100 kPa, in particular more than 120 kPa, and/or less than 200 kPa,in particular less than 190 kPa.

The intermediate gas storage 214I is preferably adapted to storecompressed gas, in particular air, preferably at said pressure.

Mostly preferred, the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I ischanged within the range of 100 kPa and 200 kPa and/or dependent on the(required) load and/or the apparatus 112, 113 and/or 205B to beactivated/deactivated and/or used and/or pressurized and/or suppliedwith pressurized air.

The pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I is preferablyincreased by means of the intermediate valve 290, in particular byopening the intermediate valve 290, and/or by fluidically connecting themain gas storage 214C to the intermediate gas storage 214I.

The intermediate valve 290 is preferably adapted to fluidicallyconnect/disconnect the main gas storage 214C to/from the intermediategas storage 214I.

The intermediate valve 290 is in particular adapted to selectivelyfluidically connect and disconnect the main gas storage 214C to and fromthe intermediate gas storage 214I, in particular in order to increasethe pressure within the intermediate gas storage 214I.

The intermediate valve 290 is preferably fluidically arranged betweenthe main gas storage 214C and the intermediate gas storage 214I. Inparticular, the intermediate valve 290 is arranged downstream of themain gas storage 214C and/or the main valve 289 and/or upstream to thethrottle valve 291 and/or the intermediate gas storage 214I.

The throttle or throttle valve 291, in the following referred to asthrottle valve 291, is preferably (directly) arranged downstream of theintermediate gas storage 214I and/or is adapted to regulate the flow toand/or the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I.

Preferably, the throttle valve 291 is embodied as a flow-control valveand/or pressure reducing valve.

The throttle valve 291 is preferably adapted to reduce the flow arealocally and/or to reduce the supply pressure and/or the pressuresupplied by the compressor 214B and/or the main gas storage 214C, inparticular to a target pressure and/or the pressure in the intermediategas storage 214I.

Preferably, the throttle valve 291 is adapted to increase the flowresistance locally.

In particular, the throttle valve 291 is embodied as a local reductionof the flow area, preferably in the pneumatic line 214M supplying theintermediate gas storage 214I.

Optionally, the throttle valve 291 can be controlled, in particular bymeans of the control apparatus 207. In this way, the flow area providedby the throttle valve 291 can be changed.

However, the throttle valve 291 might be embodied as a constant and/orunchangeable (local) reduction of the flow area.

The pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I is preferably reducedby fluidically connecting the intermediate gas storage 214I to an outletand/or an outlet silencer 214K of the pressurized gas supply 214 and/ormeans of the first actuation valve 292 and/or the second actuation valve293.

In particular, the first actuation valve 292 and/or the second actuationvalve 293 are/is adapted to fluidically connect the intermediate gasstorage 214I to an outlet and/or an outlet silencer 214K of thepressurized gas supply 214.

Thus, the first actuation valve 292 and/or the second actuation valve293 preferably act(s) and/or are/is preferably used as a dischargevalve. However, it is also possible, that the analyzer 200, inparticular the pressurized gas supply 214, comprises an additionaldischarge valve for the intermediate gas storage 214I.

The actuation valve(s) 292, 293 are/is preferably arranged (directly)downstream of the intermediate gas storage 214I.

The first actuation valve 292 is preferably fluidically arrangeddownstream of the intermediate gas storage 214I, in particular directly.

The first actuation valve 292 is preferably adapted to fluidicallyconnect/disconnect at least one apparatus 112, 113, 205B, in particularthe pump apparatus 112, to/from the intermediate gas storage 214I.

The first actuation valve 292 is in particular adapted to selectivelyfluidically connect and disconnect at least one apparatus 112, 113,205B, in particular the pump apparatus 112, to and from the intermediategas storage 214I.

With other words, the first actuation valve 292 is preferablyassociated/assigned with/to the pump apparatus 112.

The second actuation valve 293 is preferably fluidically arrangeddownstream of the first actuation valve 292 and/or the intermediate gasstorage 214I.

The second actuation valve 293 is preferably adapted to fluidicallyconnect/disconnect at least one apparatus 112, 113, 205B, in particularthe sensor apparatus 113, to/from the intermediate gas storage 214I.

The second actuation valve 293 is in particular adapted to selectivelyfluidically connect and disconnect at least one apparatus 112, 113,205B, in particular the sensor apparatus 113, to and from theintermediate gas storage 214I.

With other words, the second actuation valve 293 is preferablyassociated/assigned with/to the sensor apparatus 113.

In the present embodiment, the actuation valves 292, 293 are preferablyarranged in series, preferably wherein the second actuation valve 293 isarranged (directly) downstream of the first actuation valve 292 and/orwherein the first actuation valve 292 is fluidically arranged betweenthe intermediate gas storage 214I and the second actuation valve 293.However, it is also possible to arrange the actuation valves 292, 293 inparallel, in particular such that both, the first actuation valve 292and the second actuation valve 293, are arranged directly downstream ofthe intermediate gas storage 214I.

The optional third actuation valve 294 is preferably assigned to atleast one apparatus 112, 113, 205B, in particular the actuator apparatus205B.

The third actuation valve 294 is preferably adapted to fluidicallyconnect/disconnect at least one apparatus 112, 113, 205B, in particularthe actuator apparatus 205B, to/from the main gas storage 214C.

The third actuation valve 294 is in particular adapted to selectivelyfluidically connect and disconnect at least one apparatus 112, 113,205B, in particular the actuator apparatus 205B, to and from the maingas storage 214C.

Preferably, the third actuation valve 294 is fluidically arrangedupstream of the actuator apparatus 205B and/or (directly) downstream ofthe main valve 289.

The third actuation valve 294 is preferably fluidically arranged inparallel to the intermediate valve 290, the throttle valve 291, theintermediate gas storage 214I, the first actuation valve 292 and/or thesecond actuation valve 293.

Thus, in contrast to the first actuation valve 292 and the secondactuation valve 293, the third actuation valve 294 is preferably notsupplied with air by the intermediate gas storage 214I, but rather(directly) by the main gas storage 214C.

The actuator apparatus 205B is preferably powered/supplied at/with apressure that is higher than the pressure needed for the pump apparatus112 and/or the sensor apparatus 113.

In particular, the actuator apparatus 205B is powered at a pressure thatcorresponds to the pressure in the main gas storage 214C.

The pump apparatus 112 and/or the sensor apparatus 113 are/is preferablypowered at a pressure that corresponds to the pressure in theintermediate gas storage 214I.

The analyzer 200, in particular the pressurized gas supply 214,preferably comprises a plurality of third actuation valves 294 and/oractuator apparatuses 205B.

In the present embodiment, the analyzer 200, in particular thepressurized gas supply 214, comprises 32 third actuation valves 294 and32 (associated) actuator apparatuses 205B.

In particular, the 32 actuator apparatus 205B are shown in FIG. 9. whereonly some of them are labeled. FIG. 10 shows by way of example oneactuator apparatus 205B with its associate actuation valve 294.

Preferably, one actuation valve 294 is associated/assigned to acorresponding actuator apparatus 205B respectively.

In particular, one third actuation valve 294 and one actuator apparatus205B are fluidically arranged and/or fluidically connected in seriesrespectively.

The third actuation valves 294 are preferably fluidically arranged inparallel to one another.

The actuator apparatuses 205B are preferably fluidically arranged inparallel to one another.

In this context “in parallel” is preferably understood regarding thefluidic connection of the actuation valves 294 and/or actuatorapparatuses 205B to one another and/or to the main gas storage 214C.However, the components need not be arranged physically in parallel inthe analyzer 200.

All valves 288-294 are preferably directly or indirectly fluidicallyconnected to an outlet of the pressurized gas supply 214 and/or anoutlet silencer 214K.

Preferably, the discharge valve 288, the main valve 289, the secondactuation valve 293 and/or the third actuation valve 294 are/is directlyconnected to an outlet and/or an outlet silencer 214K and/or are/isassociated/assigned to and/or arranged (directly) upstream of an outletand/or an outlet silencer 214K of the pressurized gas supply 214.However, other solutions are possible as well, in particular whereinseveral or all valves 288-294 are associated/assigned with/to a (common)outlet silencer 214K.

The outlet silencer(s) 214K is/are preferably adapted to reduce thenoise of the analyzer 200, in particular the pressurized gas supply 214,mostly preferred in the outlet of the pressurized gas supply 214.

The outlet silencer(s) 214K are/is preferably arranged in the outlet ofthe pressurized gas supply 214 and/or (each) comprises or forms anoutlet of the pressurized gas supply 214.

As already explained, the analyzer 200 is preferably pneumaticallyconnected or connectable to the cartridge 100, mostly preferred by meansof the connection unit 231 and/or the connection element(s) 214A, 214L.

Preferably, the first connection element 214A is associated with a firstconnection 129 of the cartridge 100 and the second connection element214L is associated with a different or second connection 129 of thecartridge 100, as shown in FIG. 3.

The connection element(s) 214A, 214L is/are preferably adapted topneumatically connect the cartridge 100 to the analyzer 200, inparticular its connection unit 231 and/or pressurized gas supply 214.

Mostly preferred, the connection element(s) 214A, 214L are/is embodiedas rigid tube(s) and/or hollow cylinder(s) and/or comprise(s) or form(s)an outlet of the pressurized gas supply 214.

Preferably, the connection element(s) 214A, 214L is/are held/supportedby/in the connection unit 231, in particular its main body 231D, as bestseen in FIG. 9.

Preferably, the connection element(s) 214A, 214L protrude through theconnection unit 231, in particular its main body 231D, and/or out of theconnection unit 231, in particular its contact surface for the cartridge100, and/or towards the cartridge 100.

The pump apparatus 112 is preferably pneumatically connected to theanalyzer 200, in particular the pressurized gas supply 214, mostlypreferred the intermediate gas storage 214I, by means of the firstconnection element 214A.

The sensor apparatus 113 is preferably pneumatically connected to theanalyzer 200, in particular the pressurized gas supply 214, mostlypreferred the intermediate gas storage 214I, by means of the secondconnection element 214L.

In the following, the construction and/or functionality of the dischargevalve 288, the main valve 289, the intermediate valve 290, the throttlevalve 291, the first actuation valve 292, the second actuation valve 293and/or the third actuation valve(s) 294 will be described.

When not explicitly mentioned, the following description applies to thedischarge valve 288, the main valve 289, the intermediate valve 290, thethrottle valve 291, the first actuation valve 292, the second actuationvalve 293 and/or the third actuation valve(s) 294. In particular, atleast one, preferably several or all of the valves, in particular thedischarge valve 288, the main valve 289, the intermediate valve 290, thethrottle valve 291, the first actuation valve 292, the second actuationvalve 293 and/or the third actuation valve 294, is/are meant when theterm “valve(s) 288-294” is used.

The valve(s) 288-294 is/are preferably embodied as directional controlvalve(s), in particular three-way two-position (3W/2P or 3/2)directional control valve(s) and/or switch valve(s).

Preferably, the valve(s) 288-294 is/are adapted to switch betweenseveral, in particular two, positions, in particular aninitial/unactuated position and an end/actuated position, and/or tochange the fluid flow between the valve ports and/or the pneumatic lines214M directly connected thereto, in particular by moving a valve bodyback and forth and/or from an initial position to an end position orvice versa.

Preferably, the valve(s) 288-294 comprise(s) several, in particularthree, ports, preferably wherein the ports are selectively fluidicallyconnected and disconnected to and from one another by activating ordeactivating the valve(s) 288-294 and/or by changing the valve position,in particular by moving a valve body back and forth and/or from aninitial position to an end position or vice versa.

FIG. 10 shows the valves 288-294 in their initial/unactuated/deactivatedstate/position and/or in the state/position they are normally in, e.g.when not being activated/actuated.

The initial position/state of the valve(s) 288-294 is preferably theposition/state of the valve(s) 288-294 and/or its/their valve body whenbeing unactuated/deactivated, e.g. by means of an associated orintegrated actuator.

Preferably, the initial position of the valve(s) 288-294 and/orits/their valve body is the normal position.

Mostly preferred, the valve(s) 288-294, in particular its/their valvebody, automatically return(s) to the initial position, afterdeactivation and/or when being unactuated/deactivated, in particular dueto an associated or integrated return mechanism, as will be explainedlater.

The end position/state of the valve(s) 288-294 and/or its/their valvebody is preferably the position/state of the valve(s) 288-294 and/orits/their valve body when being (completely) actuated/activated, e.g. bymeans of an associated or integrated actuator. Thus, the end position ofthe valve(s) 288-294 is preferably only a temporary position.

Preferably, the position of the valve(s) 288-294 and/or its/their valvebody can be changed by actuating/activating or unactuating/deactivatingthe valve(s) 288-294.

Preferably, the initial position and/or unactuated/deactivated positionof the valve(s) 288-294 and/or its/their valve body can be changed tothe end position and/or actuated/activated position of the valve(s)288-294 and/or its/their valve body by actuating/activating the valve(s)288-294.

Accordingly, the end position and/or actuated/activated position of thevalve(s) 288-294 and/or its/their valve body can be changed to theinitial position and/or unactuated/deactivated position of the valve(s)288-294 and/or its/their valve body by unactuating/deactivating thevalve(s) 288-294.

By changing the positions, the fluid connections of the ports of thevalve(s) 288-294 are changed. For example, in the initial position afirst port and a second port of the valve(s) 288-294 are fluidicallyconnected, whereas in the end position the first port and the secondport are fluidically disconnected and/or the first port or second portis fluidically connected to a third port of the valve(s) 288-294.

During the position change, i.e. when switching from the initialposition to the end position or vice versa, the valve(s) 288-294 is/aretemporarily in an intermediate position/state.

The intermediate position of the valve(s) 288-294 and/or its/their valvebody is preferably the position/state of the valve(s) 288-294 and/orits/their valve body between the initial position and the end positionand/or immediately after being actuated/activated orunactuated/deactivated and/or before reaching the end position or theinitial position.

In the intermediate position, all ports of the valve(s) 288-294 might befluidically connected to or disconnected from one another.

The valve(s) 288-294 are preferably mechanically, hydraulically,electrically and/or electromechanically, mostly preferredelectromagnetically, actuated/activated, as will be explained later.

Preferably, the discharge valve 288 is open and/or fluidically connectsthe assigned/associated outlet silencer 214K and/or an outlet to themain gas storage 214C normally and/or when being unactuated/deactivatedand/or in its initial position.

In particular, the discharge valve 288 fluidically disconnects theassigned/associated outlet silencer 214K and/or an outlet from the maingas storage 214C when being activated/actuated and/or in its endposition.

The main valve 289 preferably fluidically disconnects the main gasstorage 214C from the intermediate valve 290, the throttle valve 291,the intermediate gas storage 214I, the first actuation valve 292, thesecond actuation valve 293 and/or the third actuation valve(s) 294normally and/or when being deactivated/unactuated and/or in its initialposition.

The main valve 289 preferably fluidically connects an outlet of thepressurized gas supply 214 and/or an outlet silencer 214K to theintermediate valve 290, the throttle valve 291, the intermediate gasstorage 214I, the first actuation valve 292, the second actuation valve293 and/or the third actuation valve(s) 294 normally and/or when beingdeactivated/unactuated and/or in its initial position.

The main valve 289 preferably fluidically connects the main gas storage214C to the intermediate valve 290, the throttle valve 291, theintermediate gas storage 214I, the first actuation valve 292, the secondactuation valve 293 and/or the third actuation valve(s) 294 when beingactivated/actuated and/or in its end position.

The main valve 289 preferably fluidically disconnects an outlet of thepressurized gas supply 214 and/or an outlet silencer 214K from theintermediate valve 290, the throttle valve 291, the intermediate gasstorage 214I, the first actuation valve 292, the second actuation valve293 and/or the third actuation valve(s) 294 when beingactivated/actuated and/or in its end position.

The intermediate valve 290 preferably fluidically disconnects the maingas storage 214C and/or the main valve 289 from the throttle valve 291,the intermediate gas storage 214I, the first actuation valve 292 and/orthe second actuation valve 293 normally and/or when beingdeactivated/unactuated and/or in its initial position.

The intermediate valve 290 preferably fluidically connects the main gasstorage 214C and/or the main valve 289 to the throttle valve 291, theintermediate gas storage 214I, the first actuation valve 292 and/or thesecond actuation valve 293 when being activated/actuated and/or in itsend position.

The first actuation valve 292 preferably fluidically connects the firstconnection element 214A and/or the pump apparatus 112 to the main gasstorage 214C, the main valve 289, the intermediate valve 290, thethrottle valve 291 and/or the intermediate gas storage 214I normallyand/or when being deactivated/unactuated and/or in its initial position.

The first actuation valve 292 preferably fluidically disconnects thesecond connection element 214L, the sensor apparatus 113 and/or thesecond actuation valve 293 from the main gas storage 214C, the mainvalve 289, the intermediate valve 290, the throttle valve 291 and/or theintermediate gas storage 214I normally and/or when beingdeactivated/unactuated and/or in its initial position.

The first actuation valve 292 preferably fluidically disconnects thefirst connection element 214A and/or the pump apparatus 112 from themain gas storage 214C, the main valve 289, the intermediate valve 290,the throttle valve 291 and/or the intermediate gas storage 214I whenbeing activated/actuated and/or in its end position.

The first actuation valve 292 preferably fluidically connects the secondconnection element 214L, the sensor apparatus 113 and/or the secondactuation valve 293 to the main gas storage 214C, the main valve 289,the intermediate valve 290, the throttle valve 291 and/or theintermediate gas storage 214I when being activated/actuated and/or inits end position.

The second actuation valve 293 preferably fluidically connects an outletof the pressurized gas supply 214 and/or an associated outlet silencer214K to the main gas storage 214C, the main valve 289, the intermediatevalve 290, the throttle valve 291, the intermediate gas storage 214Iand/or the first actuation valve 292 normally and/or when beingdeactivated/unactuated and/or in its initial position.

The second actuation valve 293 preferably fluidically disconnects thesecond connection element 214L and/or the sensor apparatus 113 from themain gas storage 214C, the main valve 289, the intermediate valve 290,the throttle valve 291, the intermediate gas storage 214I and/or thefirst actuation valve 292 normally and/or when beingdeactivated/unactuated and/or in its initial position.

The second actuation valve 293 preferably fluidically disconnects anoutlet of the pressurized gas supply 214 and/or an associated outletsilencer 214K from the main gas storage 214C, the main valve 289, theintermediate valve 290, the throttle valve 291, the intermediate gasstorage 214I and/or the first actuation valve 292 when beingactivated/actuated and/or in its end position.

The second actuation valve 293 preferably fluidically connects thesecond connection element 214L and/or the sensor apparatus 113 to themain gas storage 214C, the main valve 289, the intermediate valve 290,the throttle valve 291, the intermediate gas storage 214I and/or thefirst actuation valve 292 when being activated/actuated and/or in itsend position.

It is preferred, that the sensor apparatus 113 and the pump apparatus112 are actuated/pressurized, supplied with gas and/or fluidicallyconnected to the intermediate gas storage 214I alternately and/or notsimultaneously, in particular since the pump drive 202 and/or the fluidflow through the cartridge 100 is temporally stopped during thedetection of the analyte or analytes of the sample P.

With other words, preferably either the sensor apparatus 113 or the pumpapparatus 112 is actuated/pressurized, supplied with gas and/orfluidically connected to the intermediate gas storage 214I.

However, it is also possible to simultaneously actuate/pressurize thesensor apparatus 113 and the pump apparatus 112, in particular when thefirst actuation valve 292 and the second actuation valve 293 arefluidically arranged in series.

The third actuation valve(s) 294 preferably fluidically connect(s) theactuator apparatus(es) 205B to the main gas storage 214C and/or the mainvalve 289 normally and/or when being deactivated/unactuated and/or intheir/its initial position.

The third actuation valve(s) 292 preferably fluidically disconnect(s) anassociated outlet of the pressurized gas supply 214 and/or an associatedoutlet silencer 214K from the main gas storage 214C and/or the mainvalve 289 normally and/or when being deactivated/unactuated and/or intheir/its initial position.

The third actuation valve(s) 294 preferably fluidically disconnect(s)the actuator apparatus(es) 205B from the main gas storage 214C and/orthe main valve 289 when being activated/actuated and/or in their/its endposition.

The third actuation valve(s) 292 preferably fluidically connect(s) anassociated outlet of the pressurized gas supply 214 and/or an associatedoutlet silencer 214K to the main gas storage 214C and/or the main valve289 when being activated/actuated and/or in their/its end position.

As already mentioned, the valve(s) 288-294 is/are preferablymechanically, hydraulically, electrically and/or electromechanically,mostly preferred electromagnetically, operated/actuated.

Preferably, the valve(s) 288-294 (each) comprise(s) a preferablyintegrated valve actuator 288A-294A, preferably wherein the associatedvalve actuator 288A-294A is adapted to actuate, in particularselectively activate or deactivate, the valve 288-294, in particular itsvalve body, and/or to change its position and/or to switch the valve288-294, i.e. from the deactivated/unactuated position into theactivated/actuated position or vice versa.

In FIG. 10, the valve actuator of the throttle valve 291 is not shown.However, the valve actuator of the throttle valve 291 might be identicalor similar to one of the valve actuators 288A-294A of the other valves288-294.

In the present embodiment, the valve(s) 288-294 is/are electrically, inparticular electromagnetically/solenoid, operated and/or comprise(s) asolenoid as valve actuator 288A-294A.

Thus, the valve(s) 288-294 is/are preferably embodied as solenoidvalves.

Preferably, the valve(s) 288-294 is/are actuated/activated and/or theposition of the valve(s) 288-294 and/or its/their valve body is changed,in particular from the initial and/or deactivated position to the endand/or activated position, by activating/powering/energizing the valveactuator(s) 288A-294A.

Preferably, the valve(s) 288-294 is/are unactuated/deactivated and/orthe position of the valve(s) 288-294 and/or its/their valve body ischanged, in particular from the end and/or activated position to theinitial and/or deactivated position, by deactivating/deenergizing thevalve actuator(s) 288A-294A.

Preferably, the valve(s) 288-294 and/or its/their valve body return(s)into its/their initial position/state automatically and/or when beingdeactivated/unactuated and/or when the valve actuator(s) 288A-294Ais/are deactivated/deenergized.

Preferably, the valve(s) 288-294 (each) comprise(s) a preferablyintegrated return mechanism 288B-294B, preferably wherein the returnmechanism 288B-294B is adapted to move the associated valve 288-294, inparticular its valve body, into the initial position, at least whenbeing deactivated/unactuated and/or when the valve actuator(s) 288A-294Ais/are deactivated/deenergized.

Mostly preferred, the valve(s) 288-294 and/or its/their valve bodyis/are pretensioned into the initial position.

Preferably, the valve(s) 288-294 (each) comprise(s) a return spring asreturn mechanism 288B-294B. However, other constructional solutions arepossible as well.

As indicated by dashed lines, the valve(s) 288-294, in particular thevalve actuators 288A-294A, is/are preferably electrically connected tothe control apparatus 207.

Preferably, the analyzer 200, in particular its control apparatus 207,is adapted to control and/or activate/deactivate the valve(s) 288-294and/or to change the position of the valve(s) 288-294 and/or toenergize/deenergize the valve actuators 288A-294A, in particular asrequired and/or optionally and/or selectively and/or such thatpressurized gas is supplied to the actuator(s) 205B, the pump apparatus112 and/or the sensor apparatus 113 as required for the test.

The pressurized gas supply 214, in particular its compressor 214B,preferably draws in air from the surroundings, in particular via inlet214D, filter 214E, inlet silencer 214F and/or inlet gas storage 214G.

The pressurized gas supply 214, in particular the compressor 214B,increases the pressure of the air, preferably to at least essentially200 kPa, mostly preferred in the main gas storage 214C.

The pressure of the main gas storage 214C is preferably controlled, inparticular by means of the control apparatus 207, the compressor 214Band/or the main pressure sensor 214H.

In particular by activating the main valve 289, the main storage 214C isfluidically connected to the intermediate valve 290 and/or the thirdactuation valve 294.

The pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I is preferablycontrolled by means of the control apparatus 207, the intermediate valve290, the throttle valve 291, the intermediate pressure sensor 214J, thefirst actuation valve 292 and/or the second actuation valve 293.

In particular in order to increase the pressure in the intermediate gasstorage 214I, the intermediate valve 290 is activated and/or fluidicallyconnects the main gas storage 214C to the throttle valve 291 and/or theintermediate gas storage 214I, preferably with the discharge valve 288and the main valve 289 being activated as well.

The pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I is preferably measuredby means of the intermediate pressure sensor 214J.

The pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I is preferably reducedby means of the first actuation valve 292 and/or the second actuationvalve 293.

Preferably, the pump apparatus 112 and/or the sensor apparatus 113are/is supplied with a constant pressure by means of the pressurized gassupply 214.

Preferably, the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I ismaintained/kept at a (first) pressure level for the pump apparatus 112and/or at a (second) pressure level for the sensor apparatus 113,preferably by means of the control apparatus 207, intermediate valve290, the throttle valve 291, the first actuation valve 292 and/or thesecond actuation valve 293.

Preferably, when the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I dropsbelow a predefined/required value, the intermediate valve 290 isactivated and/or the intermediate gas storage 214I is fluidicallyconnected to the main gas storage 214C, in particular by activating theintermediate valve 290. In this way, air can flow from the main gasstorage 214C to the intermediate gas storage 214I.

Preferably, when the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214 meetsand/or is above a predefined/required value, the intermediate valve 290is preferably deactivated and/or the intermediate gas storage 214I isfluidically disconnected from the main gas storage 214C, in particularby deactivating the intermediate valve 290.

With other words, the intermediate valve 290 is preferably selectivelyactivated or deactivated in order to maintain the pressure in theintermediate gas storage 214I.

Preferably, the (target) pressure required for the actuation of the pumpapparatus 112 differs from the (target) pressure required for theactuation of the sensor apparatus 113.

Preferably, the (first) pressure level and/or the (target) pressure forthe pump apparatus 112, in particular for the actuation of the pumpapparatus 112, is higher than the (second) pressure level and/or the(target) pressure for the sensor apparatus 113, in particular for theactuation of the sensor apparatus 113.

Preferably, the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I isadapted/changed according to the load and/or the apparatus 112, 113 tobe activated.

When changing from the actuation of the pump apparatus 112 to theactuation of the sensor apparatus 113, the pressure in the intermediategas storage 214I is preferably decreased, in particular to the (second)pressure level and/or the (target) pressure for the sensor apparatus113.

When changing from the actuation of the sensor apparatus 113 to theactuation of the pump apparatus 112, the pressure in the intermediategas storage 214I is preferably increased, in particular to the (first)pressure level and/or the (target) pressure for the pump apparatus 112.

Preferably, the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I isincreased by fluidically connecting the intermediate gas storage 214I tothe main gas storage 214C and/or the compressor 214B, in particular byactivating the intermediate valve 290, the main valve 289 and/or thedischarge valve 288, as already mentioned.

Preferably, the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I is reducedby fluidically connecting the intermediate gas storage 214I to an outletof the pressurized gas supply 214 and/or an outlet silencer 214K, inparticular by means of the first actuation valve 292 and/or the secondactuation valve 293.

In the present embodiment, a pressure reduction can be achieved byactivating the first actuation valve 292 and thereby fluidicallyconnecting the intermediate gas storage 214I to an outlet of thepressurized gas supply 214 and/or an associated outlet silencer 214K.

The second actuation valve 293 is preferably fluidically connected to anoutlet of the pressurized gas supply 214 and/or an associated outletsilencer 214K and/or fluidically connects the first actuation valve 292to an outlet of the pressurized gas supply 214 and/or an associatedoutlet silencer 214K, when being unactuated/deactivated, as alreadymentioned. However, other solutions are possible as well.

When the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I has reached thepressure required for the actuation of the sensor apparatus 113, theintermediate gas storage 214I is preferably fluidically connected to thesecond connection element 214L and/or to the sensor apparatus 113, inparticular by means of the second actuation valve 293 and/or the firstactuation valve 292 which preferably fluidically connect(s) the secondconnection element 214L and/or the sensor apparatus 113 to theintermediate gas storage 214I.

Thus, the control apparatus 207, the intermediate valve 290, thethrottle valve 291, the first actuation valve 292 and/or the secondactuation valve 293 is/are preferably used to maintain a predefinedpressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I for the operation of thepump apparatus 112 and/or the sensor apparatus 113 and, further, foradapting/changing the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I whenanother apparatus is to be activated and/or supplied with compressedair, e.g. when instead of the sensor apparatus 113 the pump apparatus112 is to be operated/activated or vice versa.

According to a preferred method, the pump apparatus 112 and/or thesensor apparatus 113 are/is already fluidically connected to theintermediate gas storage 214I before the pressure in the intermediategas storage 214I is changed, in particular increased, to therequired/target pressure.

Preferably, before fluidically connecting the pump apparatus 112 and/orthe sensor apparatus 113 to the intermediate gas storage 214I, thepressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I is optionally reduced to apredefined pressure, e.g. ambient pressure, in particular by means ofthe first actuation valve 292 and/or the second actuation valve 293.

Subsequently, the pump apparatus 112 and/or the sensor apparatus 113are/is preferably fluidically connected to the intermediate gas storage214I, in particular by activating or deactivating the first actuationvalve 292 and/or the second actuation valve 293.

Subsequently, the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I ispreferably increased, in particular by means of the intermediate valve290, mostly preferred by activating the intermediate valve 290 and/orthe throttle valve 291, in particular until the target pressure isreached.

Subsequently, the intermediate valve 290 is deactivated and/or theintermediate gas storage 214I is fluidically disconnected from the maingas storage 214C, in particular by deactivating the intermediate valve290.

In this way, the pressure increase in the intermediate gas storage 214Icorresponds to a pressure increase in the pump apparatus 112 and/or thesensor apparatus 113.

With other words, the pump apparatus 112 and/or the sensor apparatus 113are/is preferably not suddenly/abruptly pressurized and/or powered withthe target pressure, but rather gradually and/or simultaneously with theintermediate gas storage 214I, mostly preferred in a linear manner.

As already mentioned, the valve(s) 288-294, in particular theintermediate valve 290, the first actuation valve 292, the secondactuation valve 293 and/or the third actuation valve(s) 294, is/arepreferably embodied as solenoid valve(s) and/or comprise(s) an electricmagnet as valve actuator 288A-294A.

The valve(s) 288-294, in particular the valve actuator(s) 288A-294A,is/are preferably operated with electrical energy.

Mostly preferred, the valve(s) 288-294, in particular the valveactuator(s) 288A-294A, generate(s) a magnetic field when being activatedand/or in order to switch the valve position.

Preferably, the valve(s) 288-294 comprise(s) a core/plunger and/or avalve body, preferably wherein the core/plunger comprises or formsand/or is (rigidly) connected to the valve body.

Preferably, the core/plunger and/or valve body is (axially) movablerelative to the valve actuator 288A-294A and/or within the housing ofthe valve(s) 288-294, in particular in order to change the valveposition, mostly preferred from the initial position to the end positionor vice versa and/or back and forth.

In particular, the core/plunger and/or the valve body is movable fromthe initial position to the end position or vice versa and/or back andforth in order to switch the fluid connections and/or to selectivelyfluidically connect or disconnect at least two ports of the valve288-294 to or from one another, respectively.

Preferably, when the valve actuator 288A-294A isactivated/energized/powered with electric energy, a magnetic field isgenerated and the core/plunger and/or the valve body is moved by meansof the magnetic field, preferably in order to change the valve positionand/or against the return mechanism 288B-294B.

In the initial position of the valve 288-294, the core/plunger and/orthe valve body is preferably in a first/initial position and/orfluidically connects two ports of the valve 288-294 and/or fluidicallydisconnects two ports of the valves 288-294.

Preferably, the force exerted by means of the return mechanism 288B-294Bon the core/plunger and/or the valve body is minimized in the initialposition.

Preferably, the core/plunger and/or the valve body can be moved from theinitial position to the end position, in particular by means of thevalve actuator 288A-294A.

In the end position of the valve 288-294, the core/plunger and/or thevalve body is preferably in a second/end position and/or fluidicallyconnects or disconnects different ports of the valve 288-294 than in theinitial position of the valve 288-294.

Preferably, the force exerted by means of the return mechanism 288B-294Bon the core/plunger and/or the valve body is maximized in the endposition.

FIG. 11 shows a schematic diagram of the electric current Iused/consumed by a valve 288-294, in particular a valve actuator288A-294A, when being activated/energized as a function of time.

FIG. 11 shows the complete switching operation, i.e. when the valve288-294 or its valve body is switched completely and/or moved from theinitial position to the end position. However, according to the presentinvention, the switching operation is preferably aborted before thevalve 288-294 or its valve body is switched/moved completely and/orbefore it has reached the end position, as will be explained in thefollowing. Thus, FIG. 11 does not correspond to the preferred operationof the valve 288-294.

The X-axis denotes the time T in seconds [s].

The Y-axis denotes the electric current I in amperes [A]. It starts with“0” which means that no current is consumed/used by the valve 288-294 orvalve actuator 288A-294A.

Thus, it is preferred that in the initial position of the valve 288-294and/or its valve body, the valve actuator 288A-294A is not supplied withelectric energy and/or no electric current is consumed/used.

For the movement of the valve 288-294 and/or its valve body from theinitial position to the end position, the valve 288-294 or valveactuator 288A-294A is energized and/or supplied with electric energy.However, it is also possible that in the initial position of the valve288-294 and/or its valve body, the valve actuator 288A-294A is suppliedwith electric energy and/or electric current is consumed/used and thatfor the movement of the valve 288-294 and/or its valve body from theinitial position to the end position, the valve 288-294 or valveactuator 288A-294A is de-energized and/or the power supply is cut off.

Preferably, the electric current I of and/or consumed by the valve(s)288-294, in particular the intermediate valve 290, is measured, inparticular for its operation, as will be explained in the following.

Here, this is explained exemplary for one valve 288-294, in particularthe intermediate valve 290. However, the following descriptionpreferably applies to any of the vales 288-294 and/or FIG. 11 isrepresentative for the temporal current progression for any of thevalves 288-294.

As already mentioned, the valve 288-294 uses an electric current I togenerate a magnetic field and/or to move the plunger/core and/or valvebody, in particular from the initial position to the end position,and/or in order to change the valve position.

When being activated and/or when energizing the valve actuator 288A-294Aand/or in order to generate the magnetic field, the current(consumption) of the valve 288-294, in particular the valve actuator288A-294A, increases, in particular from 0 A, to the maximum current, inparticular the end/third value I3, mostly preferred with a decreasinggradient.

The third current value I3 is preferably the maximum current and/or thehighest value and/or the electric current used/consumed of the valve288-294, in particular its valve actuator 288A-294A, when the switchingoperation is completed and/or when the valve 288-294, in particular itsvalve body, is in or has reached the end position.

With energizing the valve actuator 288A-294A and/or generating themagnetic field, a force is preferably exerted on the core/plunger and/orthe valve body.

The force exerted by means of the magnetic field on the core/plungerand/or the valve body preferably increases with generating the magneticfield and/or with the current I.

When a certain value of the magnetic field, of the force and/or of thecurrent I is reached, the core/plunger and/or the valve body starts tomove, in particular out of its initial position, and/or the valve288-294 starts to change its position.

With the movement of the core/plunger and/or the valve body relative tothe valve actuator 288A-294A, an electromagnetic induction occurs and/ora (counter) current is preferably produced/induced, preferably until thecore/plunger and/or the valve body stops to move and/or reaches its endposition. This induced (counter) current preferably has an impact on the(measured) current I and/or its gradient.

Preferably, the current gradient is temporarily, i.e. between the timepoints T1 and T2, negative, due to the movement of the core/plungerand/or valve body.

In particular due to movement of the core/plunger and/or valve body, dueto the electromagnetic induction and/or due to the (counter) currentinduction, the (positive) gradient of the current I is preferably(temporarily) reduced, in particular more/greater than without a countercurrent induction, and is temporarily negative, mostly preferred untilthe core/plunger and/or the valve body stops to move and/or reaches itsend position.

Until a first current value I1 and/or a first time point T1 is reached,the current preferably increases and/or the current gradient ispreferably positive.

The current increase is preferably stopped and/or the current gradientis zero at the first current value I1 and/or at a first time point T1,in particular due to movement of the core/plunger and/or valve body, dueto the electromagnetic induction and/or due to the (counter) currentinduction.

Subsequently and/or until a second current value I2 and/or a second timepoint T2 is reached and/or until the core/plunger and/or the valve bodystops to move and/or reaches its end position and/or between the firsttime point T1 and the second time point T2, the current preferablydecreases and/or the current gradient is preferably negative.

The current decrease is preferably stopped and/or the current gradientis zero at the second current value I2 and/or at a second time point T2and/or when the core/plunger and/or the valve body stops to move and/orreaches its end position.

Thus, the first current value I1 is preferably a (local) extremum(maximum), preferably wherein the first current value I1 indicates themovement of the core/plunger and/or valve body.

Thus, the first current value I1 and/or the first time point T1 can beused as an indicator for (the beginning of) the movement of thecore/plunger and/or (the beginning of) the position change of the valve288-294 (although the movement of the core/plunger preferably startsearlier, as already mentioned).

When the core/plunger and/or the valve body reaches its end positionand/or stops to move and/or when the position change of the valve288-294 is completed, the production/induction of the (counter) currentand/or the current decrease is stopped and/or the current gradient iszero.

Preferably, the core/plunger and/or the valve body reaches its endposition and/or stops to move and/or the position change of the valve288-294 is completed at the second current value I2 and/or the secondtime point T2.

The second current value I2 is preferably a (local) extremum (minimum),preferably wherein the second current value I2 which indicates the endposition of the core/plunger and/or the valve body and/or when thechange of position is completed and/or when the core/plunger and/or thevalve body stops to move.

The second current value I2 and/or the first time point T2 indicate(s)the end position of the core/plunger and/or the valve body and/or whenthe movement of the core/plunger and/or the valve body stops and/or whenthe core/plunger and/or the valve body reaches its end position and/orstops to move and/or if the position change of the valve 288-294 iscompleted.

Subsequently and/or after the time point T2 and/or after the valve288-294 and/or the core/plunger and/or the valve body has reached itsend position, no (counter) current is produced/induced and/or thecurrent preferably increases (again) and/or the current gradient ispreferably positive (again), in particular until the magnetic field iscompletely generated and/or the third value I3 is reached.

By measuring the current I of the valve 288-294, it is possible todetect/determine the first current value I1, the first time point T1,the second current value I2 and/or the second time point T2.

In particular, by measuring the current I of the valve 288-294, it ispossible to detect/determine the reduction of the current gradientand/or when the current gradient is zero or becomes negative and/or whenthe valves 288-294 starts to change its position and/or when thecore/plunger and/or the valve body starts to move and/or stops to moveand/or reaches its end position.

In particular, the (local) maximum of the current I used/consumed by thevalves 288-294, in particular for generating the magnetic field, isdetermined/detected in order to detect when the valve 288-294 starts tochange its position and/or the core/plunger and/or the valve body startsto move.

Preferably, prior to the second time point T2, in particular at thefirst time point T1, and/or before the valve 288-294 reaches its endposition and/or before the core/plunger and/or the valve body stops tomove and/or during the switching operation and/or while the core/plungerand/or the valve body is still in motion, in particular at the first(local) maximum and/or when the valve 288-294 starts to change itsposition and/or the core/plunger and/or the valve body starts to move,the power supply is cut off and/or the valve 288-294 and/or its valveactuator 288A-294A is deactivated.

Subsequently and/or after the power supply is cut off and/or the valve288-294 and/or its valve actuator 288A-294A is deactivated, the currentdecreases until zero (not shown) and/or the core/plunger and/or thevalve body is moved back into its initial position, in particular bymeans of the return mechanism 288B-294B.

Thus, a further current consumption is prevented.

In this way, the switching time and/or the time of activation and, thus,the power consumption of the valve 288-294 operated in this manner canbe reduced.

Further, the switching frequency can be increased, which, for example,allows to maintain the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I asstable as possible.

As already mentioned, this method is preferably used for the operationof the intermediate valve 290.

In order to increase the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I,the intermediate gas storage 214I is preferably fluidically connected tothe main gas storage 214C and/or the compressor 214B, preferably bymeans of the intermediate valve 290, in particular by activating theintermediate valve 290.

In the initial position of the intermediate valve 290, the intermediategas storage 214I is preferably fluidically disconnected from the maingas storage 214C and/or the compressor 214B.

The valve body of the intermediate valve 290 preferably fluidicallydisconnects the ports of the intermediate valve 290 that are connectedto intermediate gas storage 214I and the main gas storage 214C, in theinitial position of the intermediate valve 290 and/or when beingdeactivated/unactuated and/or de-energized.

When activating the intermediate valve 290 and/or energizing the valveactuator 290A, the valve body starts to move, as already explained.

With the movement of the valve body out of the initial position and,preferably, even before reaching the end position, a fluidic connectionis preferably established between the intermediate gas storage 214I andthe main gas storage 214C and/or the ports of the intermediate valve 290that are connected to intermediate gas storage 214I and the main gasstorage 214C.

Preferably, the intermediate valve 290, in particular the valve actuator290A, is deactivated and/or de-energized before the valve body stops tomove and/or reaches the end position and/or before the second time pointT2.

Mostly preferred, the intermediate valve 290, in particular the valveactuator 290A, is deactivated and/or de-energized (immediately) afterand/or when the valve body starts to move (out of its initial position),(immediately) after and/or when a counter current is induced,(immediately) after and/or when the current gradient is zero and/ornegative and/or (immediately) after and/or when the intermediate gasstorage 214I and the main gas storage 214 are fluidically connected toone another.

In particular, the intermediate valve 290, in particular the valveactuator 290A, is deactivated and/or de-energized at the first timepoint T1 and/or between the first time point T1 and the second timepoint T2.

Preferably, the first actuation valve 292 and/or the second actuationvalve 293 can be operated in a similar manner, in particular in order todecrease the pressure in the intermediate gas storage 214I.

Preferably for the inspection of the analyzer 200, in particular thepressurized gas supply 214, mostly preferred the valve(s) 288-294, theactuator apparatuses 205B, the pump apparatus 112 and/or the sensorapparatus 113, the pressure drop and/or the air consumption associatedwith the operation of the valve(s) 288-294, the actuator apparatuses205B, the pump apparatus 112 and/or the sensor apparatus 113 is measuredand/or compared to values that correspond to the normal pressure drop.

For the inspection it is preferred to increase the pressure within themain gas storage 214C, in particular by means of the compressor 214B,preferably until a target/inspection pressure is reached, preferably ina first step.

Preferably, the compressor 214B is subsequently deactivated. With otherwords, the main gas storage 214C is preferably pressurized to thetarget/inspection pressure only once.

Subsequently and/or in a second step, the actuator apparatus 205B or atleast one of the actuator apparatuses 205B is activated, in particularby means of the associated actuation valve 294, at least once,preferably repeatedly and/or several times.

Preferably, each actuation of the actuator apparatus 205B results in acorresponding pressure drop/loss and/or consumption of the pressure/airin the main gas storage 214C, preferably wherein the pressure drop/lossand/or consumption of the pressure/air in the main gas storage 214C ismeasured, in particular by means of the main pressure sensor 214H.

The measured pressure drop is preferably compared to a referencepressure drop, preferably by the control apparatus 207.

The reference pressure drops is preferably stored in a memory of theanalyzer 200, in particular of the control apparatus 207.

The reference pressure drop preferably is the normal/expected pressuredrop for the operation in question.

In case of a leakage, e.g. in the pneumatic line 214M between theactuator apparatus 205B and the main gas storage 214C, the pressuredrop/air consumption is higher than normal.

In case the actuator apparatus 205B does not work properly, e.g. whenits actuation element is jammed, the pressure drop and/or airconsumption is lower than normal.

In case the associated actuation valve 294 does not work/switchproperly, the pressure drop and/or air consumption is lower than normaland/or even lower than in case the actuator apparatus 205B does not workproperly.

Thus, by measuring the pressure drop it is possible to detect whetherthe pneumatic lines 214M, the actuation valve(s) 294 and/or the actuatorapparatus(es) 205B function properly.

In the same way, the pump apparatus 112, the sensor apparatus 113, thefirst actuation valve 292, the second actuation valve 293, the throttlevalve 291 and/or the intermediate valve 290 can be inspected.

Following a test, the measurement results are read out electrically fromthe sensor apparatus 113 and processed either in the analyzer 200 or anexternal device (not shown).

Following the test, the used cartridge 100 is preferably ejectedautomatically, in particular my means of the lifting apparatus 238.

In particular, the intermediate unit 230, clamping unit 231 and/or thedrive head 233E, and thus preferably also the cartridge 100, are/ismoved back from the test position, in particular by means of the driveapparatus 233, in particular its drive 233A.

Subsequently, the analyzer 200 or the opening 213 opens. For thispurpose, the access cover/housing port 212B is in particular moved bymeans of the opening apparatus 239.

The cartridge 100 can then be removed. In particular, the cartridge 100is first ejected or moved out into the transfer position. This iscarried out in particular by means of the lifting apparatus 238. Theanalyzer 200 is then (again) in the state shown in FIG. 7.

Finally, the used cartridge 100 can be manually removed from thetransfer position and a new cartridge 100 (containing a new sample P)can be loaded for further testing.

If a new cartridge 100 has not been inserted or plugged in within aspecified period of time, the analyzer 200 closes preferablyautomatically.

If a new cartridge 100 is inserted after the analyzer 200 has opened,the cartridge 100 is preferably moved automatically from the transferposition into the position in which it has been received in itsentirety. For this purpose, the analyzer 200 preferably comprises adetection means for detecting whether a cartridge 100 has been receivedin part or inserted in part.

The analyzer 200 or the opening 213 closes in a preferably automaticmanner and/or only if no object is present in the region of the opening213. To this end, the analyzer 200 preferably comprises a detectionmeans for detecting objects located in the region of the opening 213, inparticular such that, if there is an object in this region, the deviceis automatically blocked or prevented from closing.

For reasons of safety, the analyzer 200 preferably is closed before thedrive apparatus 233 is actuated and/or before the intermediate unit 230is moved into the/test position and/or before the cartridge 100 ismounted, positioned and/or clamped.

Individual aspects and features of the present invention and individualmethod steps and/or method variants may be implemented independentlyfrom one another, but also in any desired combination and/or order.

In particular, the present invention relates also to any one of thefollowing aspects which can be realized independently or in anycombination, also in combination with any aspects described above or inthe claims:

1. Analyzer 200 for testing an in particular biological sample P bymeans of a cartridge 100,wherein the analyzer 200 comprises a pressurized gas supply 214,wherein the pressurized gas supply 214 comprises a compressor 214B, amain gas storage 214C downstream of the compressor 214B, an intermediatevalve 290 downstream of the main gas storage 214C and at least oneactuation valve 292, 293, 294 downstream of the intermediate valve 290,andwherein the analyzer 200 comprises an intermediate gas storage 214I,wherein the intermediate gas storage 214I is fluidically arrangedbetween the intermediate valve 290 and the actuation valve 292, 293,294.2. Analyzer according to aspect 1, characterized in that the main gasstorage 214C comprises a volume that is greater than the volume of theintermediate gas storage 214I.3. Analyzer according to aspect 1 or 2, characterized in that theanalyzer 200 comprises a main pressure sensor 214H for measuring thepressure in the main gas storage 214C and/or an intermediate pressuresensor 214J for measuring the pressure in the intermediate gas storage214I.4. Analyzer according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized inthat the analyzer 200 comprises a connection unit 231 for pneumaticallyconnecting the cartridge 100 to the pressurized gas supply 214.5. Analyzer according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized inthat the analyzer 200, in particular the connection unit 231, comprisesat least one connection element 214A, 214L to pneumatically connect theanalyzer 200, in particular the pressurized gas supply 214, to thecartridge 100, wherein the connection element 214A, 214L is fluidicallyarranged downstream of the actuation valve 292, 293, 294 and/or forms anoutlet of the pressurized gas supply 214.6. Analyzer according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized inthat the analyzer 200 comprises at least one pneumatically operatedactuator 205B for mechanically actuating an associated valve 115B on thecartridge 100, wherein the actuator 205B is fluidically arranged inparallel to the intermediate gas storage 214I.7. Analyzer according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized inthat the intermediate valve 290 and/or the actuation valve 292, 293, 294is constructed as a solenoid valve and/or—in particular 3/2—directionalcontrol valve.8. Method for testing an in particular biological sample P in ananalyzer 200 by means of a cartridge 100,wherein at least one apparatus 112, 113, 205B for controlling the fluidflow in the cartridge 100 is pneumatically operated,wherein the apparatus 112, 113, 205B is supplied with pressurized gas bymeans of a pressurized gas supply 214 having a compressor 214B, a maingas storage 214C downstream of the compressor 214B and an intermediatevalve 290 downstream of the main gas storage 214C,characterizedin that the intermediate valve 290 is embodied as a solenoid valve,wherein the intermediate valve 290 is activated or deactivated before ithas reached its end position, and/or in that the pressure of anintermediate gas storage 214I located downstream of the intermediatevalve 290 is controlled.9. Method according to aspect 8, characterized in that the current ofthe intermediate valve 290 is measured in order to determine when theposition of the intermediate valve 290 starts to change and/or when avalve body of the intermediate valve 290 start to move.10. Method according to aspect 8 or 9, characterized in that a change inthe current gradient of the intermediate valve 290, in particular alocal extremum of the current, is determined in order to activate ordeactivate the intermediate valve 290 and/or in order to determine whenthe position of the intermediate valve 290 starts to change and/or whena valve body of the intermediate valve 290 starts to move.11. Method according to any of the aspects 8 to 10, characterized inthat the apparatus 112, 113 is arranged within the cartridge 100.12. Method according to any of the aspects 8 to 11, characterized inthat a plurality of apparatuses 112, 113, 205B is pneumatically operatedby means of the pressurized gas supply 214, in particular theintermediate gas storage 214I, wherein one of the plurality ofapparatuses 112, 113, 205B is embodied as a pump apparatus 112 forconveying a fluid and/or one of the plurality of apparatuses 112, 113,205B is embodied as a sensor apparatus 113 for detecting an analyte ofthe sample P.13. Method according to any of the aspects 8 to 12, characterized inthat the cartridge 100 is received by the analyzer 200 and mechanically,electrically, thermally and/or fluidically coupled to the analyzer 200in order to carry out the test.14. Method for inspecting an analyzer 200, wherein the analyzer 200 isadapted to test an in particular biological sample P by means of acartridge 100,wherein at least one apparatus 112, 113, 205B for controlling the fluidflow in the cartridge 100 is pneumatically operated,wherein the apparatus 112, 113, 205B is supplied with pressurized gas bymeans of a pressurized gas supply 214 having a compressor 214B and amain gas storage 214C downstream of the compressor 214B, andwherein the pressure drop associated with the operation of the apparatus112, 113, 205B is measured in order to inspect the analyzer 200.15. Method according to any of the aspects 8 to 14, characterized inthat the analyzer 200 is constructed according to any of the aspects 1to 7.

LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

-   100 cartridge-   100A front-   100B back-   101 main body-   101E depression-   102 cover-   103 fluid system-   104 receiving cavity-   105 metering cavity-   106 intermediate cavity-   107 mixing cavity-   108 storage cavity-   109 reaction cavity-   110 intermediate temperature control cavity-   111 collection cavity-   112 pump apparatus-   113 sensor apparatus-   113E contact-   113H central region-   114 channel-   115 valve-   115A initially closed valve-   115B initially/normally open valve-   116 sensor portion-   121 edge-   122 reinforcing rib-   123 grip portion-   126 positioning portion-   129 connection-   130 closure element-   200 analyzer-   201 receptacle-   202 pump drive-   202A motor-   202B pump head-   203 connection apparatus-   203A contact element-   204 temperature-control apparatus-   204A reaction temperature-control apparatus-   204B intermediate temperature-control apparatus-   204C sensor temperature-control apparatus-   205 actuator apparatus-   205A actuator apparatus for 115A-   205B actuator apparatus for 115B-   206 sensor-   206A fluid sensor-   206B other sensor-   207 control apparatus-   208 input apparatus-   209 display apparatus-   210 interface-   211 power supply-   211A connection-   212 housing-   212A interior space-   212B access cover/housing part-   212C base-   212D top-   213 opening-   214 pressurized gas supply-   214A first connection element-   214B compressor-   214C main gas storage-   214D inlet-   214E filter-   214F inlet silencer-   214G inlet gas storage-   214H main pressure sensor-   214I intermediate gas storage-   214J intermediate pressure sensor-   214K outlet silencer-   214L second connection element-   214M pneumatic line-   230 receiving/intermediate unit-   231 connection unit-   231A bearing portion-   231B support region-   231C engagement portion-   231D main body-   232 clamping unit-   233 drive apparatus-   233A drive-   233D shaft-   233E drive head-   234 guide apparatus-   234A first guide-   234B second guide-   234C first rail-   234D second rail-   234E main bush-   237 (mounting) rack-   237A mounting surface-   238 lifting apparatus-   238B retaining element-   239 opening apparatus-   239A drive-   239C support-   239D shaft-   280 clamping system-   281 ventilation apparatus-   282 electronic unit-   283 cushion-   283A base-   283B top-   283D interior-   284 first coupling-   285 second coupling-   286 detection apparatus-   288 discharge valve-   288A valve actuator-   288B return mechanism-   289A valve actuator-   289B return mechanism-   289 main valve-   290 intermediate valve-   290A valve actuator-   290B return mechanism-   291 throttle valve-   292 first actuation valve-   292A valve actuator-   292B return mechanism-   293 second actuation valve-   293A valve actuator-   293B return mechanism-   294 third actuation valve-   294A valve actuator-   294B return mechanism-   AG1 first guide axis-   AG2 second guide axis-   AA actuation axis-   I electric current-   I1 first current value-   I2 second current value-   I3 third current value-   F liquid reagent-   H main plane of cartridge-   P sample-   S dry reagent-   T time-   T1 first time point-   T2 second time point

1. An analyzer for testing a biological sample by means of a cartridge,the analyzer comprising: a pressurized gas supply having a compressor, amain gas storage downstream of the compressor, an intermediate valvedownstream of the main gas storage and at least one actuation valvedownstream of the intermediate valve, or an intermediate gas storage,wherein the intermediate gas storage is fluidically arranged between theintermediate valve and the actuation valve.
 2. The analyzer according toclaim 1, wherein the main gas storage has a volume that is greater thanthe volume of the intermediate gas storage.
 3. The analyzer according toclaim 1, further comprising a main pressure sensor for measuring thepressure in the main gas storage and an intermediate pressure sensor formeasuring the pressure in the intermediate gas storage.
 4. The analyzeraccording to claim 1, further comprising a connection unit having atleast one connection element for pneumatically connecting the cartridgeto the pressurized gas supply, wherein the connection element isfluidically arranged downstream of the actuation valve and forms anoutlet of the pressurized gas supply.
 5. The analyzer according to claim4, wherein the connection element protrudes out of the connection unit.6. The analyzer according to claim 4, wherein the connection unitcomprises a plurality of connection elements to pneumatically connectdifferent apparatuses of the cartridge to the pressurized gas supplyindependently of one another.
 7. The analyzer according to claim 1,wherein the pressurized gas supply comprises a plurality of actuationvalves.
 8. The analyzer according to claim 6, wherein the pressurizedgas supply comprises a plurality of actuation valves and wherein eachconnection element is arranged downstream of a respective one of theactuation valves.
 9. The analyzer according to claim 1, furthercomprising at least one pneumatically operated actuator for mechanicallyactuating an associated valve on the cartridge, wherein the actuator isfluidically arranged in parallel to the intermediate gas storage. 10.The analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the pressurized gas supplycomprises an actuation valve that is fluidically arranged in parallel tothe intermediate gas storage and is adapted to selectively fluidicallyconnect and disconnect the actuator to and from the main gas storage.11. The analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate valveand the actuation valve are constructed as at least one of a solenoidvalve and a directional control valve.
 12. A method for testing abiological sample in an analyzer by means of a cartridge, including:controlling a fluid flow in a cartridge by at least one apparatus whichis pneumatically operated; and supplying the at least one apparatus witha pressurized gas from a pressurized gas supply having a compressor,wherein a main gas storage is downstream of the compressor and anintermediate valve is downstream of the main gas storage, with at leastone of the following features: the intermediate valve is embodied as asolenoid valve, wherein the intermediate valve is activated ordeactivated before it has reached its end position; or a plurality ofapparatuses is pneumatically operated by means of the pressurized gassupply, wherein a pressure of an intermediate gas storage locateddownstream of the intermediate valve is adapted depending on anapparatus of the plurality of apparatuses to be activated ordeactivated.
 13. The method according to claim 12, wherein a current ofthe intermediate valve is measured in order to determine when a valvebody of the intermediate valve starts to move.
 14. The method accordingto claim 12, wherein a change in a current gradient of the intermediatevalve is determined in order to activate or deactivate the intermediatevalve.
 15. The method according to claim 12, wherein the apparatuses arearranged within the cartridge.
 16. The method according to claim 12,wherein one of the plurality of apparatuses is embodied as a pumpapparatus for conveying a fluid.
 17. The method according to claim 12,wherein one of the plurality of apparatuses is embodied as a sensorapparatus for detecting an analyte of the sample.
 18. The methodaccording to claim 12, wherein the cartridge is received by the analyzerand is at least one of mechanically, electrically, thermally andfluidically coupled to the analyzer in order to carry out a test. 19.Method for inspecting an analyzer that is configured to test abiological sample by means of a cartridge, including: controlling afluid flow in the cartridge by at least one apparatus which ispneumatically operated; and supplying the at least one apparatus with apressurized gas from a pressurized gas supply having a compressor and amain gas storage downstream of the compressor, and measuring a pressuredrop associated with an operation of the at least one apparatus in orderto inspect the analyzer.